Messages of condolence poured in from across the metro area, as school leaders, athletic groups and parents rallied around Gretna and lamented what some called every parent’s worst fear.

First responders who arrived at the scene called it “tragic.”

“The worst one I’ve worked,” tweeted Sarpy County Sheriff’s Deputy Lindsay Varona.

The one-vehicle crash occurred just west of the intersection of 180th Street and Platteview Road, according to Capt. Chris Culler of the Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities have yet to publicly release the names of the five girls, and pastors Tuesday night said they would also refrain from using their names, although they said many in the community undoubtedly know the victims. Culler said authorities may need to use DNA and dental records in the identification process.

Monday, deputies were called to the scene at 11:12 p.m. and found a Ford Fusion engulfed in flames.

Investigators determined that the Ford was eastbound on Platteview Road when it left the roadway for an unknown reason and struck the end of a guardrail, Culler said.

The vehicle continued down into a ravine and caught fire. The cause of the crash is unknown but under investigation.