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Central Valley High School senior killed days before graduation

POTTER TOWNSHIP, Pa. — The Beaver County coroner has identified the Central Valley High School senior who was killed in a motorcycle crash just days before he was supposed to graduate.

Channel 11’s Amy Marcinkiewicz reported that John Barbuto, 18, died Monday in the crash on Raccoon Creek Road in Potter Township. The crash was reported about 7 p.m.

“Our report shows he passed a car and lost control. Speed played a factor,” Center Township police Chief Barry Kramer said.

Barbuto’s best friend told Channel 11 News that he was with him at the time of the crash.

“I was right there. I saw it and I gave him CPR. It was difficult,” the teen said. “I love him. He was great. He was my best friend and a brother.”

Central Valley High School’s student Twitter account sent out a tweet Tuesday saying, “A picture's worth a thousand words. From everyone at CV, thank you John, you will forever be in our hearts.”

https://twitter.com/CVHSWarriors/status/471129143628034049

Central Valley School District has about 2,400 students in grades K-12 from Center, Monaca and Potter.

Barbuto’s family and friends described him as always being happy and carefree.

“He was my baby brother,” Vincent Barbuto said. “It really helps to have them all here giving you prayers and support.”

Hundreds of people packed St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church in Center Township to remember John Barbuto Tuesday night.

“He was a great kid. Overall, he was one of my best friends,” Curtis Askerneese said. “He sat behind me every day in class. I’ll miss him.”

WPXI

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