One man was killed Thursday in a car crash in Colonie.

It happened at around 6:30 p.m. Thursday near the intersection of Central Avenue and Arrow Street. Colonie police have identified the driver as 21-year-old Ja'Juan Williams of Albany.

A police press release states that Williams was behind the wheel of a 2000 Acura Integra that lost control heading eastbound on Central Avenue. The car went off the road, hit a snowbank, went airborne and crashed into a pole.

Williams, the only one in the car, died on impact. Police say a preliminary investigation indicates speed was a factor.

"This is a real catastrophic crash," said Lt. Ken Pero of the Colonie Police Department. "I've been doing it for 31 years, and this is one of the worst I've seen."

Police say no other cars were involved, and the investigation is ongoing. They ask any witnesses to the crash to call them at 783-2744.

Williams was a 2013 graduate of Bishop Maginn High School, where his sister is currently a senior. School officials released a statement saying in part:"Our heartfelt prayers go out to his family and all of those who were fortunate enough to call him friend. We wanted to use this time to tell a favorite story about Ja'Juan as a student. Ja'Juan was that student who was known and loved by all. He had an infectious smile that could light up a room, He was always there to help,to love and be loved. #70 on the football team, a coaches favorite, Ja'Juan had a heart that knew no limits."

Included in the statement was a story about Williams' effort in Bishop Maginn's Cans of Gold campaign to combat hunger in the region. In his senior year, Williams took an entire week's salary from his part-time job and purchased 500 cans of food for donation.

The statement added, "We suggest that if you would like to make a difference as Ja'Juan, make a donation of nonperishable items the Immaculate Conception Food Pantry or the food pantry of your choice."