The campus of Dennis‑Yarmouth Regional High School fell silent this week as the school and surrounding community grapple with the tragic loss of senior and standout athlete Gabriel Siqueira. Gabriel, 17, from West Yarmouth, was one of two teenagers killed in a very early-morning crash along Route 140 in New Bedford, Massachusetts, and his passing has sent waves of grief through his friends, classmates and coaches.
Shortly before 2 a.m., emergency responders from the Massachusetts State Police and other units rushed to the scene on the southbound side of Route 140 near mile marker 2.1 in New Bedford. There they found a badly damaged 2019 Honda Civic that had veered off the roadway and come to rest in a wooded area. Two teenagers had been ejected from the vehicle. Gabriel was pronounced dead at the scene, and a 15-year-old girl was transported to hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries. The driver, an 18-year-old male from Dartmouth, suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
As of now, the crash remains under active investigation by state police in concert with the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office. Officials have confirmed that no other vehicles were involved and no immediate cause has been released; charges have not been determined. The investigation is ongoing, and the community is waiting for more information while also trying to process the sudden loss.
At Dennis-Yarmouth, Superintendent Marc J. Smith offered a statement that spoke of Gabriel’s energy, leadership and impact. “Gabriel was known for his energy, passion, and the inspiration he brought to everyone around him,” Smith said. The school confirmed that support services and counseling were made available for students and faculty coping with the tragedy. Principal Kendra Bennett further described Gabriel as a cherished member of the D-Y community — a talented varsity soccer player whose kindness and sportsmanship left a mark. She reminded the school that “once a Dolphin, always a Dolphin,” reinforcing that the school will pull together in support of each other.
The reaction across Cape Cod and the wider school community has been one of deep sorrow. Social-media posts, shared memories and tributes recall Gabriel’s bright smile, his willingness to push his teammates to do their best, and his loyalty as a friend. More than just athletic ability, many noted his ability to uplift others, to lead by example, and to carry both the classroom and the field with intention. In these posts you see something simple yet powerful: the reminder that a young life—so full of promise—can also leave a lasting ripple of inspiration.
This moment is also a stark reminder of both life’s fragility and the power of community when tragedy strikes. As the investigation continues, and as Gabriel’s family and friends and the third student recover and grieve, the D-Y community has paused, held one another up, and begun the work of remembrance together. Support services remain in place for any student or member of staff who needs time, space, or a guiding hand.
Gabriel’s legacy—marked by determination, empathy and passion—will carry on both on the soccer pitch and in the hallways of the school. While he won’t be here in person, his imprint remains: in the cheers of his teammates, in the conversations between friends, and in the quiet moments of reflection by those whose lives he touched. Forever a Dolphin—forever remembered.
