Sources: Girl, 15, driving in Poconos crash that killed 3 teens

HOLLAND, PA -- Action News has learned from police sources that a 15-year-old girl from New York was behind the wheel of an SUV that crashed over Labor Day weekend in the Poconos, killing three teens from Bucks County.

Sources went on to say that the vehicle belonged to her parents, and she did not have permission to take the SUV.

She, and a 16-year-old girl, also from New York, picked up the Bucks County teens and headed out for lunch late Saturday morning, sources said.

On the way back, the SUV was involved in a single-vehicle crash near Lake Wallenpaupack in Wayne County.

Killed in the crash were Ryan Lesher, Shamus Digney, and Cullen Keffer. All three 15-year-olds were set to enter their sophomore year at Council Rock South High School.

The 15-year-old girl and 16-year-old girl survived the crash and are cooperating with police in the investigation, sources told Action News.

There was a third survivor of the crash. However, that person's connection to those involved in the crash is not yet known.

Pennsylvania State Police are executing multiple search warrants in connection with the case, source said.

Sources also said speed played a factor in the crash and there were no outward signs of alcohol or drug use.

Those sources added that numerous charges are pending as the investigation continues.

COMMUNITY REMEMBERS TEENS

Mike Lesher says to put it simply, there was something special about his nephew Ryan.

"When he smiled, the room got brighter. We're going to miss him terribly, but we feel blessed because we had him for 15 years," he said.

Ryan, who played basketball and soccer, attended Saint John's United Methodist.

Youth Pastor David Bigam has known Ryan's family for a decade.

"Ryan was an awesome young man, full of energy and full of vitality. He loved God," he said.

The family of Shamus told Action News that he was the youngest of eight children. He played both basketball and football at Council Rock.

Cullen was also an athlete and played lacrosse.

The school's team tweeted Sunday night from @CRSHawksLax "To all those showing Cullen love on here tonight, we can't thank you enough. We are heartbroken, but your kind words will help get us thru"

School principal Al Funk knew all three teens who were killed.

He says he will remember them as bright, charming, and athletic young men who involve themselves in a number of school activities.

"Three tremendous individuals who shared their gifts and talents with Council Rock High School South," he said.

"Those bright lights were extinguished way too soon."