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An Alabama couple died in two separate freak car accidents after each crashed into the same church just days apart.
Anthony Banks Jr., 19, died when he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into the Riverside Baptist Church.
The June 20 collision sparked a massive fire and caused the teen to lose his life.
Three days later, his girlfriend, Jennefer Arellano-Maldonado, 19, died at the same location, after she crashed into the burned-out church while reportedly fleeing from police.
Alabama State Trooper Brandon Bailey told Alabama Live that Arellano-Maldonado was attempting to evade a Riverside police officer.
Alabama couple Anthony Banks Jr. and Jennefer Arellano-Maldonado, both 19, died in freak car accidents within days of each other after crashing into the same church.
He said the teen was fleeing a 2019 BMW X5 that had been stolen from a family member.
The vehicle left the road and crashed into a brick wall before catching fire.
She was not wearing a seat belt at the time and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Banks’ mother has created a GoFundMe to help cover the expenses of the funeral, where he paid tribute to his late son.
“She was in a horrible accident that took the life of my precious baby at such a young age; he just turned 19 17 days ago,” she wrote.
‘His life hadn’t even begun when he was tragically taken from this world. As I write this, tears flow uncontrollably praying that this is all a nightmare that we will all wake up from soon.’
Friends also honored the tragic couple in social media posts.
‘My two loves, get some rest, we will miss you all. Anthony and Jennifer RIP,” a friend posted.
Anthony Banks Jr., 19, died when he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into the Riverside Baptist Church.
The June 20 collision sparked a massive fire and caused the teen to lose his life.
Banks’ childhood friend also honored the “absolute treasure” 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 sweetheart to be with. She made everyone around her smile with just her smile.
‘I remember you said: “I don’t know when I’ll die, but I know I’ll be happy” and now you’re gone.
‘You were so loved by so many people and brought so much happiness, joy and laughter to everyone’s lives. Your presence was impressive. Rest easy, sweet boy.
Just three days later, his girlfriend Jennefer Arellano-Maldonado, 19, died at the same location after she crashed into the burned-out church while allegedly fleeing from police.
Riverside Fire and Rescue said its crews battled the initial fire on June 20 throughout the night and into the morning.
Riverside Fire and Rescue said its crews battled the initial fire on June 20 throughout the night and into the morning.
“Riverside Baptist Church has been a staple in our small town for decades and our thoughts and prayers are with them and the family of the deceased during this difficult time,” the agency wrote in a statement.
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to conduct an investigation into the circumstances.
