The first day of school should be a day remembered for new classes, new teachers, everyone with new shoes and new level of education. It should never be remembered for heartbreak, tragedy and death.

Unfortunately, for one Black Belt community and area school, the first day of the 2011 school year will be remembered for the life that was lost when 16-year-old Deundre Rudolph was killed in a one-vehicle accident.

The investigation is continuing to find out just how the car Rundolph was driving left the road, collided with trees and took a life far too early. Two others in the car were injured and were in serious condition following the accident. They are expected to survive but unfortunately the damage is already beyond repair.

As a junior at Central High School, Rudolph had already completed the required portions of the Alabama High School graduation exam and was well-respected by his classmates, his teachers, his coaches and school administration.

What adds to this horrible story is the evidence that shows Rudolph was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident.

There’s no way to tell if wearing the seat belt would have saved his life, but we all know doing so very well could have improved his chances.

In his death, in this tragedy, let us hope there is a lesson his classmates, his friends can learn that wearing a seatbelt each and every time you get into a vehicle can possible save your life.

We all mourn the loss of this young man and offer our most heartfelt prayers to his family and friends who will always have a hole in their heart where Deundre once was.