ST. THOMAS – A high school graduate’s dream of becoming a journalist died early Monday morning when her young life suddenly ended in a car crash.

A single-car accident claimed the life of reigning St. Thomas Carnival Queen Karence DeCosta, 18, several hours after she joined 286 Charlotte Amalie High School seniors for the institution’s 79th commencement exercise on Sunday.

Police spokeswoman Melody Rames said in a prepared statement that the accident happened at 2:15 a.m. on Veterans Drive.

DeCosta was killed on impact. The male passenger was uninjured, Rames said.

DeCosta was driving a Toyota Corolla west on Veterans Drive when she apparently lost control of the car and struck the wall and railing at Blyden Marine Terminal and then struck the concrete base of a utility pole. The vehicle came to rest in the area of the Seaplane terminal, Rames’ statement said.

DeCosta was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical technicians.

The V.I. Police Department’s Traffic Bureau is investigating the accident, and authorities could not say Monday whether speeding or alcohol were contributing factors.

“It is still presently being investigated. We have to interview people and get all the information. It’s too soon to have a conclusion to the event right now,” St. Thomas Deputy Police Chief Dwayne DeGraff said.

Just hours before the crash, DeCosta delivered a memorable performance of “Ave Maria” at her class’ commencement exercise, as the talented singer celebrated her graduation with classmates, friends and family at the University of the Virgin Islands Sports and Fitness Center.

At the ceremony, DeCosta was among students recognized as distinguished and outstanding leaders. She was a member of both the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society.

DeCosta was born in St. Kitts and Nevis and moved to St. Thomas in 2006. She spent three years at CAHS, and Howell remembers her as an exceptional student. She said DeCosta wanted to pursue a career in broadcast journalism.

DeCosta was crowned 2009 St. Thomas Carnival Queen on April 18, and on Monday, the Carnival Committee released a statement remembering the talented young woman.

“Though we are saddened that her time with us was short, God knows best. We pray for healing for her family, friends, classmates and our community. Rest in peace our beautiful queen, our beautiful songbird, Karence.”

Throughout her life, DeCosta was awarded several accolades, including the Best Soloist Award from the Heritage Music Festival at this year’s Inauguration Ceremony of U.S. President Barack Obama.

DeCosta celebrated her 18th birthday on June 1.

Following her graduation, DeCosta planned to study broadcast journalism in North Carolina. She was also the best possible candidate for the upcoming Miss World 2009 Pageant in Johannesburg, South Africa but will never be possible due to this tragic accident.

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