Framingham State University student killed in car crash

A 20-year-old Framingham State University student was killed after she was ejected from the back seat of a vehicle in a crash near the campus that injured four other students early this morning, according to police.

Sophomore Ashley M. Donahue, of Bridgewater, was killed in the single-car crash after the car veered off Badger Road in Framingham about 2:19 a.m., according to officials.

Donahue, who was a passenger in the back seat on the driver’s side, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to a statement released by Framingham Police Lieutenant Ronald Brandolini this morning.

The driver of the car, who was only identified as being female, was MedFlighted to Massachusetts General Hospital.

The two other passengers were being treated at the MetroWest Medical Center, according to a statement from the university.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ashley’s family, friends and fellow students, as well as the family and friends of the other students involved,’’ Framingham State President Timothy J. Flanagan said in the statement. “Framingham State is a small, close-knit community. Every one of us, whether student, faculty or staff, feels this loss.’’

Framingham police and State Police are investigating the crash.

It was not known immediately whether speed or alcohol contributed to the crash, why the car left the road, and what the car struck, Brandolini said.

The vehicle was traveling north before it left the road, Brandolini said.

Badger Road is across a reservoir from the Framingham State campus.

Donahue lived on campus in Linsley Hall.

Framingham State counselors will be on-campus this weekend “to help students cope with this tragic loss,’’ according to the statement.