The Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn community is mourning the death of one of its students following a single-vehicle accident Wednesday, March 20.

According to the Iowa State Patrol, Joshua Cruz, 16, of Hartley, was driving a 2000 Honda Accord eastbound on 300th Street when it left the roadway and struck an embankment on Waterman Creek. The accident report noted Cruz was not wearing a seatbelt and suffered a fatal injury during the crash.

The accident occurred approximately three miles northwest of Hartley at around 8:30 a.m. The Iowa State Patrol, O'Brien County Sheriff's Office, Hartley ambulance and Iowa Department of Natural Resources assisted at the scene.

Cruz was sophomore at H-M-S High School. He was involved in several activities, including football, basketball, baseball and track.

"He was so smart, funny, caring, and so, so kind towards others," stated a GoFundMe page set up by his family. "[There was] not one bad thing about him. He's the type of person you can meet once and never forget his soul

and energy. Words can't describe what a big loss this is."

The GoFundMe page had raised $9,500 as of Wednesday morning to help offset funeral costs. Donation buckets for Cruz's family were also placed at businesses throughout northwest Iowa, and a memorial fund has been established at Savings Bank.

H-M-S administrators released a joint statement last week regarding the tragedy.

"It is with deep regret that we inform you about a recent loss to our high school community. This loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions for our entire school, especially our students.

"At our school, we have counselors and clergy available for any student who may need or want help or any type of assistance surrounding this loss. We encourage you, as parents, to also feel free to use our resources.

SENTINEL-NEWS FILE PHOTO

A visitation for Joshua Cruz will be held on Friday, March 29 from 3-7 p.m., at the Hartley Funeral Home. A celebration of life service is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 30 at the H-M-S Event Center in Hartley.

"We are saddened by the loss to our school community and will make every effort to help you and your child as you need. If you would like additional assistance, please do not hesitate to contact district administration."

Cruz's obituary had not yet been posted as of Tuesday evening. A visitation will be held on Friday, March 29 from 3-7 p.m., at the Hartley Funeral Home, with the family present from 5-7 p.m. A celebration of life service is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 30 at the H-M-S Event Center in Hartley.