The Myrtle Beach Academy has lost a bright star today.  Marc Chaplin, a senior at the school, was killed within a short distance of the Academy, when his motorcycle collided with a North Myrtle Beach school bus at 8:10 this morning.

Marc’s death sent shock waves through the school, where he was well liked.  There was a lot of sobbing and hugging at the Academy today.   Many left school in the morning, unable to contain their grief. 

Tomorrow many of Marc’s friends will wear purple in his honor.  Marc and his buddies had a “purple shirt” day every week. 

The bus driver involved in the collision will be asked some hard questions and possibly prosecuted for manslaughter.  The details of the accident are not yet out, but one of my daughter’s friends, who used to ride the bus driven by him, stopped taking that bus because she was afraid of his driving. 

Marc’s friends have created a Facebook Group in his honor.  Marc was wearing a helmet, and he had a reputation for being a very careful driver, but a motorcycle is a dangerous thing…  If we can do anything constructive with this deep sadness, let it be spreading the word about how dangerous motorcycles are. 

My heart goes out to Marc’s parents.  Losing your child has to be Life’s most tormenting pain.  There are no words to describe the deep sorrow of our entire community for the loss of this lovely young man.  May he rest in peace!

Mirela Monte