Glenbrook South senior killed in violent 2-car crash: Police

GLENVIEW (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - A 17-year-old was killed and three other people were injured in a crash in north suburban Glenview Sunday night.

Glenview Police said Marko Niketic was killed in the crash at around 11 p.m. Neighbors and friends said the Glenbrook South High School senior was driving his girlfriend home when they were hit as they turned onto East Lake Avenue from Meadow Lane.

Preston Shute said Marko was his best friend and going to be his college roommate in the fall.

“He’s one of those people, you meet him, and he’s glowing…just the most genuine human ever, the amount of times he’s gone out of his way to feed my needs is ridiculous,” Shute said.

Police said the other driver has non-life threatening injuries, and one passenger in each of the two cars have been hospitalized in critical condition.

A regional crash assistance team is helping with the investigation.

Glenbrook South shared the tragic news with families, telling students they have counselors available.

Glenbrook South Principal Dr. Barbara Georges’ full letter is posted below.

Dear GBS Students and Families:

We are sorry to inform you that GBS senior Marko Niketic tragically passed away in an accident that occurred last night. At this time, we are respecting the family’s need for privacy as they process their loss.

Death can be difficult for us to understand, especially when it is sudden. Today, students may feel shock, sadness, or confusion. What is most important is that we care for and support each other. The GBS student services team is responding to the emotional needs of all students and staff by making student services personnel available. Students may drop in to the student services department at any time or also visit the Glenbrook Health Center and speak with their social worker. Students and families may utilize the following services:

Text-A-Tip: a 24/7 anonymous text-communication system for youth needing immediate mental health assistance for themselves or a friend.
GBS: text "GBS HELP" and their message to 844-823-5323
Titan Concern Form:
GBS: Students may submit anonymous communication to Glenbrook South High School regarding their safety or that of others. Click here if you wish to submit a tip.

The National Association of School Psychologists provides guidance for parents and guardians to have conversations with their students and support them as they navigate the loss of a classmate. In addition, we are fortunate to have counseling centers in our community with whom we partner, who are available for students and families for additional support. A complete list of community resources is available here.

If your family has recently endured a loss or similar hardship, it's possible that your student may be grappling with feelings of sadness. Please inform the school counselor of any pertinent details that could help us offer the necessary support to your student.

The student services department will continue to offer counseling throughout the week. Our thoughts are with the Niketic family and the entire GBS community during this difficult time.

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