Brandon Alexander Genlot from Westfield High School has passed away in an unfortunate car crash, leaving behind his family and friends who cherish his memory. The case is under investigation to find the actual cause of the accident.
According to the Acting Principal, Tom Paterson, Brandon Genlot was a senior at the school and had built his reputation as one of the finest athletes in the institution. His passing has burdened the school, and teachers are sending encouraging words to the family.
The Westfield Police reported that the 17-year-old crashed his car in the Watchung Reservation section of Scotch Plains. Authorities stated that Genlot’s car was the only victim in the crash and caught fire after striking a tree.
Moreover, emergency assistance couldn’t reach the location on time as a passerby had later reported the crash. Genlot suffered from fatal injuries around his head, leading to an immediate demise inside the vehicle.
The report was made around 7:30 p.m. on 11 November 2024 as the vehicle and the surrounding area caught fire. The Scotch Plains Fire Department handled the situation and handed the body to the Union County Police Department.
Similarly, investigators are working to determine the actual cause of the accident and where Genlot was going. Genlot’s family members and the school confirmed his passing a day later, posting heartfelt messages for the teen.
Additionally, the high school administration and counseling team provide additional support resources for students and staff who want to discuss Genlot. The institution is working in collaboration with the Traumatic Loss Coalition for Youth.
A GoFundMe page has been created for Brandon Genlot to cover his funeral costs after the deadly crash!
Genlot’s parents, Donna and Jeff, described their oldest child as a kind individual who valued kindness and dedication. They announced that the teen’s service will occur on 17 November 2024 at Higgins and Bonner, 582 Springfield Ave, Westfield.
Further, a family friend, Tracey OBrien, initiated a GoFundMe page to cover the memorial costs. The page has raised over $28,540 out of its $15k goal, receiving donations from 400 members.
Before his demise, Genlot participated in several school sports events and brought a different energy to the court. He played volleyball for his club, Warren Sixpack, and his coach described him as “a player with a positive spirit.“
Congratulations to the following juniors as they were recognized for the PE Warrior during the month of September: 2x winners Erin Hazard and Brandon Genlot!!👏🏻👏🏻@WHS_BlueDevils @WestfieldNJK12 pic.twitter.com/J6h8h5Grc7
— WHS PE (@pe_whs) October 30, 2023
The teen shared similar interests in his studies and earned recognition on the honor roll numerous times. He recently joined the National Honor Society after receiving a certificate of achievement for fluency in Mandarin.
Moreover, his parents shared that Genlot had plans to attend university in 2025 intake to attain a degree in Astrophysics. The Westfield community has supported Genlot’s parents during this difficult time.
One of Genlot’s friends’ parent wrote, “Sean’s friend Brandon Genlot passed away in a car crash. We are heartbroken for his family, and if you could support them in any way during this awful time, it would be greatly appreciated.“
Additional Information
- According to National Highway Reports, over 270k car crashes occurred in New Jersey municipal counties, states, interstates, and roadways. Of the recorded crashes, 59k caused life-threatening injuries, while 524 cases resulted in fatalities.
- Authorities have requested people who witness a road accident in New Jersey to contact the New Jersey State Police at (609) 882-2000 or 1-800-213-9419 for emergency roadside assistance.
