Teen driver, 21-year-old passenger killed in high-speed crash in St. Paul

A 17-year-old driver and a 21-year-old passenger were killed in what police believe was a high-speed crash in St. Paul. 

The single-vehicle crash was reported at 8:55 p.m. Friday, Aug. 27, at 766 Minnehaha Avenue. Police responded to the scene and found the two males trapped in a "badly damaged" Buick sedan. 

"They attempted to get into the car to help the driver, but were unable to do so," a release from St. Paul PD said. Saint Paul Fire medics were next to arrive and were able to help pry open a door and start treating the driver, who was later extricated from the vehicle with the help of firefighters cutting the vehicle open. 

The 17-year-old from Princeton, identified as Mateo Cindrich-Casillas, was transported to Regions Hospital and died from his injuries. 

The 21-year-old passenger was "obviously deceased" at the scene, police said. His identity has not been provided. 

A witness later told officers he saw the vehicle racing eastbound on Minnehaha, through a red light at the intersection with Victoria before violently hitting a tree, police said in the release. 

Police said alcohol may have contributed to the crash. 

Note: The details provided in this story are based on the police’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.