LAKELAND — A single-car crash killed the passenger and left the driver in critical condition, leaving a community in mourning.

Bartow police say the November 11 accident happened on State Road 60 at around 10:30 p.m.

Officials say the driver lost control of the car, crossed the lanes and hit a tree. Takaya Louis, 19, was killed upon impact; the other two passengers were transported to Lakeland Regional Hospital. The driver is still in critical condition.

Each of the passengers attended Polk State College.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic death of one of our scholarship house students at the Youth Villa campus in Bartow," said Youth Ranch President Bill Frye. "Late Thursday night, three of our college students living at the scholarship house were in a single-car crash.

"Our hearts are broken right now. This is every family’s worst nightmare, and these students are part of our Youth Ranches family. We ask that you join us in praying for the students involved and their parents. We are grieving this unthinkable loss together. Takaya will be missed by those she leaves behind, but we take comfort in knowing that she is in God’s embrace. Another angel has entered into the loving arms of our Lord and Savior.”

The Pace Center for Girls also paid their respect to Louis, by releasing balloons in her honor.

“It’s so sad to see her gone,” said a friend of Louis. “When you drive, please drive safe because we can’t afford to lose anyone else."