Molly Buffington And Claire Esmond Holland Hall Teenage Students Died After Tulsa Car Accident
Molly Buffington and Claire Esmond Holland Hall teenagers and students died after Tulsa car accident on Thursday night. The Holland Hall community in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is grappling with profound grief following a tragic car accident that resulted in the death of two of its students, Mollie Buffington and Claire Esmond. The devastating car crash occurred on the night of February 13, 2025, near the intersection of 91st Street and Riverside Drive.
Molly Buffington and Claire Esmond death
According to reports, the accident took place around 9:45 p.m. The vehicle, carrying three Holland Hall juniors, was traveling north on Riverside Drive when it veered off the road at 91st Street, rolled, and landed in Joe Creek. Tragically, Mollie Buffington and Claire Esmond were pronounced dead at the scene, while the 17-year-old driver was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Witnesses reported seeing the car traveling at a high rate of speed before the crash, leading investigators to consider speed as a potential factor in the accident.
Molly Buffington and Claire Esmond Tulsa car accident
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, Holland Hall School has been enveloped in mourning. The school’s administration canceled Upper School classes on Friday, February 14, to provide students and faculty with space to grieve and process the loss. Chaplains and counselors have been made available to offer support during this challenging time. In a heartfelt letter to the community, Head of School JP Cullen expressed the depth of sorrow felt by all, stating, “We are heartbroken. We are completely devastated.”
The impact of this tragedy extends beyond the school grounds. Local residents have been paying their respects at a memorial near the crash site. Fourth-grade students from Holland Hall, Olivia Agrawal and Olivia Martin, were among those who visited, leaving flowers and offering prayers for the victims. Their gesture reflects the tight-knit nature of the community and the collective grief shared by all. Mollie Buffington and Claire Esmond were both juniors at Holland Hall and were known for their vibrant personalities and active participation in school activities. While specific details about their individual achievements have not been publicly disclosed, it is evident that their loss has left a significant void in the hearts of those who knew them. The school community continues to honor their memory through various tributes and memorials.
Molly Buffington and Claire Esmond obituary
The accident has prompted discussions about the safety of the intersection at 91st Street and Riverside Drive. Some community members have raised concerns about a noticeable dip in the roadway, suggesting it may pose a hazard to drivers. Nathan Gaines, a local resident, emphasized the need for attention to this area, stating, “I wanted them to know that this is a problem area that definitely needs to be addressed before somebody else maybe has the same kind of accident.” The City of Tulsa has indicated that it is awaiting the final crash report before determining any potential changes to the intersection.
In times of such profound loss, providing emotional support to those affected is crucial. Experts recommend open communication, allowing individuals, especially teenagers, to express their feelings and ask questions. Lorri Perez of Family and Children Services advises adults to be present and available for conversations, noting, “For the adults who are going to be hearing about this and trying to comfort the kids, they may have questions, so you want to be able to answer those questions or ask them if they have questions.” Additionally, she suggests that taking breaks from social media can be beneficial during the grieving process.
As the Holland Hall community navigates this period of mourning, the collective support from students, faculty, families, and local residents serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of the community. While the pain of losing Mollie Buffington and Claire Esmond is immeasurable, their memories will continue to inspire acts of kindness, unity, and reflection. The community remains committed to honoring their legacy and supporting one another through this difficult time.
