In Massena Wednesday, there was an outpouring of grief and sympathy following the death of 17 year old high school student.

Massena Central student Robert Rochefort, 17, was killed around 5 pm Tuesday in an accident on Route 37 in the Town of Massena.

Rochefort's car struck a utility pole, killing him instantly, police said.

Rochefort was a wrestler on the Massena Red Raiders wrestling team.

Another student, Steven LaClair, was a passenger in the vehicle and suffered injuries in the crash. LaClair is in Massena Memorial Hospital.

Dozens of students gathered at the accident scene Wednesday afternoon. They embraced and left flowers.

According to a press release from school sSuperintendent Roger Clough, both are members of the graduating class of 2010.

Clough said counselors would be available in the high school library throughout the week.

"In addition, I have cancelled two sporting events scheduled for this evening (hockey game and a wrestling match).  I felt this was appropriate to show the District's respect and support to both families, as both young men were student athletes at the school."

Funeral arraignments are incomplete.

A Facebook page has been established in Robert's memory titled "R.I.P. Robert Rochefort."

Clough stated that "thoughts, prayers and heartfelt sympathies go out to Robert's family and to those affect by this tragic loss."

State police said excessive speed played a role in the crash.

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