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An Alabama couple died in two separate car wrecks after crashing into the same church just days apart.
Anthony Banks Jr., 19, died when he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into Riverside Baptist Church.
The collision on June 20 caused a massive fire and resulted in the teenager losing his life.
Three days later, his girlfriend, Jennefer Arellano-Maldonado, 19, was killed at the same spot after driving into the burned-out church while allegedly fleeing police.
Senior Alabama State Trooper Brandon Bailey told Alabama Live that Arellano-Maldonado tried to elude a Riverside police officer.
Alabama couple Anthony Banks Jr. and Jennefer Arellano-Maldonado, both 19, died just days apart in bizarre car wrecks after crashing into the same church
He said the teen was fleeing a 2019 BMW X5 that had been stolen from a relative.
The vehicle left the road and struck a brick wall before bursting into flames.
She was not wearing a seat belt at the time and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Banks’ mother has one GoFundMe to help cover funeral costs, where she paid tribute to her late son.
“He was in a terrible accident that killed my precious son at such a young age that he only turned 19 years old 17 days ago,” she wrote.
“His life had not even begun before he was tragically taken from this world. As I write this the tears are flowing uncontrollably and I pray that this will all be a nightmare that we will all soon wake up from.”
Friends also honored the tragic couple in social media posts.
“My two loves, rest in peace, you will all be missed. Anthony & Jennifer RIP,” a friend posted.
Anthony Banks Jr., 19, died when he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into Riverside Baptist Church
The collision on June 20 caused a massive fire and resulted in the teenager losing his life
Banks’ childhood friend also honored the “absolute sweetheart” in an emotional post.
‘Your life was just beginning. I am so sorry to the friends and family of Anthony Banks.
“He was an absolute treasure and a treasure to be around. Make everyone around him smile with just his smile.
‘I remember you saying, “I don’t know when I’m going to die, but I know I’ll be happy” and now you’re really gone.
‘You were so loved by so many people and you brought so much happiness, joy and laughter into everyone’s lives. Your presence was breathtaking. Rest in peace dear boy.’
Just three days later, his girlfriend Jennefer Arellano-Maldonado, 19, was killed at the same spot after driving into the burned-out church while allegedly fleeing police.
Riverside Fire and Rescue said their crews battled the first fire on June 20 throughout the night and into the morning
Riverside Fire and Rescue said their crews battled the first fire on June 20 throughout the night and into the morning.
“Riverside Baptist Church has been an important part of our small town for decades and our thoughts and prayers are with them and the family of the deceased during this difficult time,” the office wrote in a statement.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is conducting an investigation into the circumstances.