A Lumpkin County High School freshman was killed after overturning his father's truck in an accident Wednesday night southwest of Dahlonega.

Lucas King, 14, was driving himself and a passenger, Daniel Fullerton, 14, south on Pink Williams Road at a high rate of speed when he lost control and the truck overturned, Georgia State Patrol Trooper Mark Cox said.

The accident occurred about a mile from the home where King lived with his father.

"Mr. King was not wearing a seat belt. He was thrown out of the vehicle," Cox said.

King was taken to Chestatee Regional Hospital in Dahlonega where he was pronounced dead. Cox said Fullerton, who was wearing a seat belt, received only minor injuries.

Lumpkin Principal Michael Tinney said Thursday morning at the school was difficult; some students found out about the accident via Facebook but others did not hear about it until they arrived at school.

"He was a very well-liked young man. He played in the band and was an honors student," Tinney said. "He had a close group of friends. We're all just devastated."

Tinney said a group of students led prayers Thursday and a school social worker and counselors were on hand to support students through the grieving process.

"We have a counselor going into each one of his classes and talking to students," he said.

Cox said he spoke with the district attorney Thursday to determine whether charges would be filed against the father.

"Charges are pending due to the fact the boys are 14," he said. "(King's) father gave them permission to drive the truck down the road ... But usually in a situation like that, the grief is enough."