Summer Devi Mehta – Palo Alto High School Mourns the Loss of a Beloved Student

The Palo Alto community is grappling with profound grief following the tragic and unexpected passing of Summer Devi Mehta, a cherished student at Palo Alto High School. Summer, whose life was full of promise and potential, died in a heartbreaking incident on February 4, 2026, at the age of 17. According to local authorities, Summer was involved in a fatal incident on the Caltrain tracks, which is under investigation.

Palo Alto High School Principal Brent Kline addressed the community, sharing the deep sorrow felt by faculty, staff, and students alike. In his statement, Principal Kline emphasized that Summer was more than a student—she was a bright, compassionate, and intelligent young woman who brought joy, creativity, and kindness to everyone she encountered. He encouraged the school community to support one another and seek help as they navigate the pain of this sudden loss.

Summer was known for her academic dedication, her warmth toward friends, and her active participation in school activities. Teachers and classmates remember her as someone who had a quiet strength, a curious mind, and a generous heart. Her presence lit up classrooms and hallways, and she had the rare ability to make those around her feel seen and valued.

The Palo Alto High School community is coming together to honor Summer’s life. Counselors and mental health professionals have been made available to students and staff who are struggling, emphasizing the importance of talking openly about grief, emotional health, and the impact of loss. The school is coordinating support for Summer’s friends and peers, ensuring that her memory is honored while also prioritizing the well-being of those affected.

Summer Devi Mehta’s family has requested privacy during this profoundly difficult time. They remember her not for the circumstances of her passing, but for the joy, laughter, and love she brought into their lives and the lives of all who knew her. Her memory will endure in the hearts of her family, friends, teachers, and the Palo Alto community.

This tragedy is a reminder of the importance of compassion, awareness, and connection in our communities. Summer’s life, though taken far too soon, serves as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have in the lives of many. The Palo Alto community is united in mourning, while also honoring the bright spirit Summer shared with the world.

May Summer Devi Mehta rest in peace, and may her family, friends, and all who knew her find comfort in cherished memories and the lasting mark she left on their hearts.