HILLSDALE COUNTY, MI — The Homer Community is in mourning following the heartbreaking loss of Austin Pitts, an 18-year-old senior at Homer High School, who tragically died in a single-vehicle crash Monday night. The accident has left classmates, teachers, and loved ones devastated, as they remember a young man who brought light and energy to every room he entered and whose future held incredible promise.
The Michigan State Police confirmed that the crash occurred just after 7 p.m. on May 5, near the intersection of Genesee Road and Bunn Road in Jonesville. According to authorities, a 2006 Chevy Silverado carrying three teenage boys lost control while navigating a curve, ultimately crashing into a tree stump off the road.
Austin, one of two passengers in the truck, was ejected from the vehicle due to not wearing a seatbelt and sustained critical injuries. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The driver, a 16-year-old boy from Litchfield, and another 16-year-old passenger sustained minor injuries and declined further medical treatment.
The loss of Austin has sent ripples through Homer High School, where he was known not only for his academic efforts but for his warm, respectful demeanor and his deep sense of kindness. Friends and faculty described him as driven and full of heart—a student who could be counted on to lend a hand, lift others up, and brighten even the darkest of days.
“Austin was the kind of student every teacher hopes to have in their classroom,” one of his teachers shared. “He was bright, hardworking, and had a quiet strength about him. His loss is unimaginable.”
Outside of school, Austin enjoyed spending time with friends, helping his family, and pursuing interests that pointed toward a bright future. He had spoken often of his dreams—whether they involved continuing his education, working with his hands, or making a difference in the lives of others. Those who knew him best say he approached life with humility and authenticity, never seeking the spotlight, but always leaving a lasting impression.
In a statement released Tuesday morning, Homer Community Schools expressed profound sorrow at the loss of one of their own:
“Austin Pitts had a future full of promise and was a valued member of our school family. This tragedy has deeply affected our students, staff, and community. We are providing counseling support to anyone in need during this difficult time, and we encourage families to reach out if their children need additional support.”
Grief counselors are available at Homer schools for students, staff, and families. The district has urged anyone impacted by this tragedy to contact their offices at 517-568-4464 for help navigating the emotional toll of this sudden loss.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, though troopers have stated that drugs and alcohol are not suspected to be involved. However, the lack of seatbelt use played a critical role in the severity of the injuries. Authorities are once again emphasizing the importance of seatbelt safety, especially among young drivers and passengers.
As the community gathers to remember Austin, vigils are being planned and social media has been flooded with tributes from friends, teammates, and teachers—all echoing the same message: Austin was loved, and he will be dearly missed.
Austin Pitts will be remembered not only for the life he lived, but for the future he was working toward—a future that, though cut tragically short, will continue to inspire all who knew him. GoFundMe
The post Austin Pitts Obituary: Homer High School student killed in Monday crash “had a future full of promise” first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
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