Two teenage boys died Tuesday evening after their dirt bikes collided head-on on Hollis Highway on Prince of Wales Island, Alaska State Troopers reported.
Crash details and victims
Troopers received the report about the collision at 7:21 p.m.. First responders performed lifesaving measures at the scene, but both riders were pronounced dead there, according to the Alaska State Troopers report.
| Name | Age | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Greyer Schwegel | 18 | Pronounced dead at the scene |
| Paul Lingley IV | 17 | Pronounced dead at the scene |
Family and community reaction
Greyer Schwegel’s father, Cody Schwegel, described his son as generous and compassionate, and said the family is reeling from the loss.
“Absolutely devastated. Absolutely devastated,”
Cody Schwegel told reporters his son cared deeply for friends and was active in suicide-prevention efforts after a friend’s near-fatal attempt earlier this year. The family has set up a GoFundMe to help with expenses; Schwegel said any remaining funds would be donated to suicide prevention in line with his son’s interests.
Representatives for the Lingley family declined to speak Wednesday, according to local reporting.
Community support and response
Local organizations and residents have posted messages of condolence and resources on social media. The Inter Island Ferry Authority urged community members to support one another and highlighted the tight-knit nature of island life.
- GoFundMe pages established for both families to assist with immediate needs.
- Local agencies and community groups offering grief resources and mutual support.
- Authorities will continue to investigate the collision; troopers are the primary agency on the scene.
What’s next
The Alaska State Troopers are handling the investigation into the circumstances that led to the head-on collision. Officials have not released further details about vehicle speeds, road conditions or whether alcohol or mechanical issues were factors.
The deaths mark a profound loss for the small island community, where neighbors often rely on one another and youth activities are closely interconnected. The investigation may take time as troopers gather evidence and complete their report.
News Block will update this story as officials release more information.
