One Student Dead, One Critical in Overnight Accident

Alcohol, speed possible factors in accident near Endicott College

An Endicott College student is dead and another man is in critical condition after an early morning, single-car crash Saturday near the college in Beverly, Massachusetts.

Craig Sampson, 19, of Williston, Vermont, was taken to Beverly Hospital where he was pronounced dead, police said. 

The driver, Joseph Castano, 20, also of Williston, Vermont, is in critical condition at Lahey Hospital in Burlington. He was not a student at Endicott College.

Police said alcohol and speed appear to be factors in the accident, which occurred at 12:15 a.m. in the area of 376 Hale St. The BMW in which they were riding struck a telephone pole, police said.

Endicott College officials released a statement Saturday confirming Sampson was a sophomore at the college and will be greatly missed.

"He brought life, energy and smiles to all our faces and will be greatly missed by the entire community," the statement read.

"I think it's really sad," said classmate Courtney Walpole. "He didn't make it through college. I think it's heartbreaking."

Grief counselors are at the college for students, and a gathering in Beechwood will be held Saturday from 8 p.m. to midnight.

Beverly Police and area state police are investigating the accident.

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