Tuscaloosa County’s Bryant High School is mourning the death of two students this morning.

Principal Eric Hines in a message to parents and guardians said Elijah Clark and Mariyae Gulley died following a crash late Saturday night.

The crash happened at 10:25 p.m. Saturday on Alabama 69 near the 136 mile marker, approximately five miles south of Tuscaloosa, according to a press release from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

The two were killed when a 2005 Nissan Maxima left the roadway and struck a ditch.

Hines said school counselors and support staff would be available for individual and group counseling.

“Elijah and Mariyae were not just students; they were bright, spirited individuals who brought joy and positivity to our school every day,” Hines said. “Their absence will be profoundly felt by their classmates, teachers, and all who had the privilege of knowing them.

“Our thoughts are with you, and we share in your grief as we remember and honor the lives of Elijah and Mariyae.”