Holland Hall Community Mourns Loss of Two Students in Tragic Car Accident
The Holland Hall community is in deep mourning following a tragic car accident that claimed the lives of two students and left another in critical condition. The accident occurred near 91st Street and Riverside Parkway in Tulsa, leaving the school and the wider community heartbroken.
Details of the Accident
Late on a Thursday evening, three Holland Hall juniors were involved in a car accident near 91st and Riverside. Two of these students did not survive, and the third remains in critical condition. Witnesses reported that the girls’ vehicle went off the road near 9000 S. Riverside Parkway around 9:45 that Thursday night. The Tulsa Police helicopter and officers found the Tesla in Joe Creek. Police said it appeared the Tesla ran off the road just north of 91st, continued into the grass, and went into the creek east of Riverside. The driver was taken to the hospital and the two passengers died. Investigators said the car, carrying the girls, was traveling north on Riverside when it left the road at 91st Street, rolled, and landed in the creek.
Remembering Mollie Buffington and Claire Esmond
Holland Hall has identified the students who passed away as Mollie Buffington, 17, and Claire Amelia Esmond, 16. Both were juniors at the south Tulsa private school and were field hockey athletes. The school community remembers them as "beautiful children of God-angels among us." Though two have been called home far too soon, their light will never dim in our hearts. As the other fights for recovery, we surround her with our love and prayers.
School's Response and Support
In the wake of the tragedy, Holland Hall canceled all Upper School classes on the Friday following the accident to provide space for mourning, processing, and being together. Chaplains and counselors were made available in the Upper School for students and faculty who needed support. The school said, "In their honor, and in their memory, we will move forward with purpose, carrying their spirits in our work, in our classrooms, and in our care for one another. We will strive each day to reflect the kindness, strength, and love they brought into our school community. Even in the face of such unfathomable loss, we must hold onto one another, care for one another, and support one another. Our community has experienced so much grief this year, but the strength of our bonds will carry us forward."
Community Mourning and Support
The Holland Hall community, along with the wider Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma, has rallied to support the grieving families and the school. A special chapel service was held, and messages of comfort and support have been shared. The community is leaning on fellow students, faculty, administration, chaplains, and counselors, as well as their faith, during this difficult time.
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Calls for Change
As the Holland Hall community grieves, some are pushing for changes at the intersection to prevent future tragedies. The specific changes being proposed have not been detailed, but the focus is on improving safety at the intersection of 91st Street and Riverside Parkway.
Memorial Service
A memorial service for Mollie Buffington and Claire Amelia Esmond was held March 1 at BattleCreek Church-Midtown, with arrangements by Fitzgerald Ivy and Southwood Colonial funeral homes.
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