Several students have been hospitalized after a serious crash in Destin, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating

A two-vehicle accident involving multiple high school students became critical Friday evening when a vehicle overturned and caught fire near the Destin ER, prompting a response from the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Investigation team.

• Destin Fire Rescue reported multiple trauma patients were transported to HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, with one patient flown to Sacred Heart Pensacola.

The crash, The one that took place at the intersection of Emerald Coast Parkway and Trista Terrace Court involved students from both Destin High School and the South Walton area.

Destin High School principal Dr. Diane Kelley visited one of her students and his father at the hospital on Friday evening, where the student was scheduled to undergo surgery.

“I promised that his favorite food would be ready as soon as he was done with surgery,” Kelley said in a statement to school families.

• Additional students from the South Walton area are being treated at various hospitals in the Gulf Coast, according to the school. The exact number of injured students has not been specified.

The sheriff’s office took notice that the Traffic Homicide Investigation team responds to all accidents involving a fatality or serious injury that could result in death. The westbound lanes of Emerald Coast Parkway were temporarily closed following the incident, but have since reopened.

Addressing the school community’s response to the incidentKelley expressed concern about the spread of misinformation online. “This news has taken a toll on our school community, especially the students and staff, as false rumors quickly circulated online,” she said.

To support those affected by the crashthe school takes immediate action.

• “Our Shark Counseling team will be on campus Monday to assist students or staff who may need additional support,” Kelley said. “I will personally coordinate support for the student’s family if necessary.”

Kelley concluded her statement by asking the community to “keep the affected families, as well as our Sharks and the Seahawk community, in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”