Friends and family gathered Wednesday night to remember 18-year-old John Malvar, killed during a skateboarding stunt the day before.
Malvar was riding his skateboard while holding on to the side of a car being driven by his 17-year-old friend, Arlington County police say. The activity is called "skitching."
The two were traveling northbound in the 300 block of South Highland Street, when Malvar lost control, fell and struck his head on the pavement.
It is not clear whether Malvar suffered any other injuries. He was transported to George Washington University Hospital with significant head trauma and was pronounced dead at 4 p.m.
Malvar attended Washington-Lee High School, where the vigil was held Wednesday.
"He would have been so amazed to see how the students of Washinton-Lee could transcend their normal groups, cliques and environments, in order to unite to one common cause," fellow student Danny told News4. He organized the vigil.
"I will never see a brighter smile than that of John Malvar," Principal Gregg Robertson said. "He was thrilled last week when he received his perfect attendance award. I think that is very telling of his determination and dedication to himself and others."
His friends remembered him as a bright young man.
"He was a good guy. He made [skating] sessions better," friend Oscar Monzon told News4.
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Charges are pending against the 17-year-old who was driving.
The following letter was sent home to parents Tuesday afternoon:
Regrettably, I must inform you that the injured student I mentioned in my earlier email has died. This is a difficult time for the Washington-Lee staff, students, and parents. The student involved was an incredible young man who contributed positively in many ways to our school and lives. The upcoming days will be difficult ones as we will be missing him and providing support to our Washington-Lee family. Please let us know of any students who may need individualized support. We have counselors available this evening until 6:00 pm and in the days to come. As I mentioned earlier, our thoughts remain with the families involved
Gregg Robertson
Principal, Washington-Lee High School
Nancy Opsut,
Principal, Arlington Career Center
