An 8-year-old boy was killed in a Wise County crash on Friday, according to Virginia State Police. He was taken to Dickenson Community Hospital, where he died from his injuries.
It should be an exciting time as classes wrap up for the year, but in Wise County Public Schools, students and staff are mourning the loss of 8-year-old Trey James.
He was a second grader at Wise Primary School, where Principal Susan Mullins says he was a popular student.
"Trey is a super academic student, the children had great relationships with him, our teachers absolutely loved him."
She says he played several sports, and always had a beautiful smile and positive attitude.
Wise County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Gregory Mullins says it has been a tough few days for those in the district.
"It has been difficult, because as I say, our faculty and staff members form such strong relationships with these children."
To help students and staff through the loss of their classmate and student, the school crisis team has been activated, with additional counselors available to all.
"We are a small school division, and there's a sense that everyone knows everyone," added Superintendent Mullins. "When any of our buildings experiences a loss, it's a loss for everyone."
To help Trey's family through the loss, the district and family friends are accepting donations.
Daniel Vires, a friend to the family, told News 5 that funds raised will help Trey's parents cover funeral expenses and take time off work to grieve.
He echoes that Trey was always a bright spot in any room.
"Trey was a ray of light, he was hysterical, he was full of energy. If I could have some of that energy, it would be everything."
School staffers say the impact the young student had will last, and the entire Wise County Public School family deeply loved Trey James.
"Trey just had that ability to be a great kid, great role model," added Principal Mullins. He will be greatly missed in our community."
To donate to the GoFundMe set up for Trey's family, click here.