Kalamazoo, MI — A tragic crash early Sunday morning claimed the lives of two teenagers after their vehicle slammed into a traffic signal pole and burst into flames, according to the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO).

Deputies said the crash happened around 3:20 a.m. near the intersection of Stadium Drive and South 9th Street. A 19-year-old driver from Paw Paw reportedly lost control of the vehicle before colliding with the pole. The car then caught fire.

When first responders arrived, both the driver and their 17-year-old passenger from Kalamazoo were pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities identified the passenger as 17-year-old Gracie Kavanaugh, remembered by loved ones as “a beloved daughter, sister, friend, and a loving girlfriend to William Deis.”

KCSO investigators believe speed played a role in the crash. It remains under investigation whether drugs or alcohol were contributing factors.

The fiery wreck has shaken the community, with friends and family mourning the sudden loss of the two young lives.

“This is a devastating tragedy that has left two families and an entire community heartbroken,” a KCSO spokesperson said.

Authorities are continuing to gather evidence and are asking anyone with information about the crash to contact the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office.