The Long Beach community is mourning the loss of a high school senior who was fatally hit by a car this week.  

Police say Nassau BOCES student Gerrin Hagen was riding his skateboard home from school when he was struck by an SUV on Cantiague Lane in Hicksville around 2:30 p.m. Thursday.  

The 19-year-old driver of the SUV remained at the scene, according to police.

Hagen was pronounced dead the following day.

The late high school student was described by many members of the community as a kind, talented athlete in both lacrosse and hockey.

Hagen worked at the Long Beach ice arena, where he taught hockey to children.

Joseph Brand, his former hockey coach, says Hagen was a beloved member of the community.

“I knew what he can bring on the ice,” said Brand. “But what he brought off the ice, and what he did to make his teammates better, it's not something that can be taught. You are born with it. He was born with a lot of gifts, but that was probably his biggest.”

Many of Hagen’s teammates gathered at the hospital during his final hours. Will Sylvia, who also coached him in hockey, says he was blessed to have Hagen as a player.

“He was a kid you depended on as a coach in situations and big moments. He was a kid that you wanted on the ice,” he said.

Residents across Long Beach placed hockey sticks outside their homes as a tribute to Hagen. A candlelight vigil was also held in Long Beach where his jersey was displayed.

The Long Beach School district will provide grief counselors to students at the high school on Sunday and Monday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.