A high-achieving former Nease High School student from Nocatee was killed last week after he was struck by a police officer near his Virginia University, officials said.
Spencer Forsling, 22, who was pursuing his master’s degree in electrical engineering at Virginia Tech, was crossing a street in Blacksburg when he was hit on Dec. 3.
Officials said the driver of the SUV was a Blacksburg police officer who was responding to an emergency call at the time of the tragic accident.
Forsling, who earned dual undergraduate degrees in computer science and engineering earlier this year, was pronounced dead at the scene at North Main and Roanoke Streets.
Mourners have created a memorial at the crash site, decorating it with flowers and other items in his remembrance.
Forsling was active on campus, working at the university’s student center to help coordinate tutoring programs.
He was also a singer in the campus a cappella group Naturally Sharp.
“The university community is heartbroken following this sudden loss,” school officials said in a statement. “Our attention will focus on supporting family, friends, and colleagues who were a part of his vibrant life.”
State police are investigating the circumstances of the crash and will release their findings at a later date.
“As an undergraduate, Spencer was actively involved in student organizations, serving as Events Coordinator and Videographer for the Chinese American Society, Historian for the Asian American Student Union, and Treasurer for Naturally Sharp A Cappella,” reads an online bio.
When not hitting the books, Forsling enjoyed growing plants, playing video games, music, and “adventuring with his friends,” the bio read.
