A Panther Valley graduate died Tuesday after a one-car crash near the high school in Summit Hill.

Stephen Hood, 20, of Lansford, was killed after the crash at 10:51 a.m. on Route 209.

Dr. David Moylan, Schuylkill County coroner, said Hood was transported to St. Luke’s Miners Campus, where he died.

Moylan said Hood lost control on black ice and hit a utility pole.

The son of Stephen and Jenny Hood, he was a junior at Kutztown University, where he pitched on the varsity baseball team.

He was a 2024 graduate of Panther Valley High School, where he lettered and started four years on baseball and basketball. He earned many awards and scholarships at his graduation.

PV Sports posted Tuesday night, “It is with a heavy heart and deep sorrow that I share the news of the passing of Stephen Hood, a member of the Panther Valley Class of 2024. Our thoughts and prayers are with Stephen’s family, friends, and all who are grieving during this difficult time.”

His brother Brad who graduated in 2023 and also was an outstanding baseball and basketball player.

Stephen’s father was a former assistant fire chief in Lansford until recently.

Stephen joined the American Hose Company in Lansford, at the age of 16. He completed various difficult firefighting courses.

Panther Valley High School was opened Tuesday evening for students and faculty to meet regarding the tragedy.