John Guerra was looking forward to a bright future.

The 17-year-old was due to begin his senior year at S.S. Seward Institute in a few weeks.

Those plans changed abruptly late Monday night 

The star student-athlete was killed in a one-car accident late Monday night on Union Corners Road.

The circumstances are still unclear. 

Students placed roses and photos at the accident scene and by a rock outside the school on Tuesday afternoon as tributes to Guerra. 

Hearing his name in Spectrum News reports on Tuesday evening likely evoked memories for people who never met Guerra, since he was written about extensively for his accomplishments as a basketball player.

Guerra and his team had also been featured on Spectrum News several times during his three-year career.

Guerra, also a well-known soccer and baseball player, is defined by much more than his athletic accomplishments, said students who visited the rock memorial outside the school.

"I would definitely say he taught people," S.S. Seward senior Michael Ossentguk said. "There are other people who are stubborn, but he definitely got through to many people. He was an inspirational guy."

When asked why Guerra will be missed, school officials spoke mostly about his impact as a "quiet leader," and very little about his decorated career wearing #10 for the Spartans.

"John was a truly kind, humble and giving young man," S.S. Seward Principal Michael Rheaume said on Tuesday. "He always put others before himself and cherished his family, friends and teammates. His smile, outstanding leadership and sense of humor will be missed by us all. Our hearts are with his family and friends."

Spectrum Sports Photographer Stephen Rodriguez, who covers S.S. Seward basketball and interviewed Guerra after he surpassed 1,000 points for his career, called Guerra "a freak athlete and just a really nice kid."

Rodriguez, too, was more impressed by Guerra's leadership and character than his athletic talent.

"He was the best player, but it didn't go to his head," Rodriguez said. "He never had a bad demeanor. He was never shrugging his shoulders, pointing fingers, yelling at the coach — none of that."

Principal Rheaume said about 75 people showed up to the school Tuesday, where counselors were standing by to help students and friends cope.

Rheaume added that several student athletes from Sullivan County, who competed against Guerra, showed up to the school because they respected Guerra as a player and a sportsman. 

Counselors are going to be available at the school from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m. each day for the rest of this week, he said.