The Fayetteville community is reeling after three E.E. Smith High School students — identified as Trevor Merritt, Jaihyon Elliott, and Nick Williams — were tragically killed in a single-vehicle crash late Wednesday night on Rosehill Road.
According to Fayetteville police, the crash occurred late in the evening when the vehicle the teens were traveling in left the roadway and struck a tree. Emergency responders arrived to find the car heavily damaged, and all three occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.
Early Thursday morning, Cumberland County Schools confirmed the identities of the victims, all of whom were students at E.E. Smith High School and members of the school’s varsity football team.
“This is an unimaginable loss,” school officials said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers remain with their families, loved ones, and the entire E.E. Smith Golden Bulls family as they grieve this heartbreaking loss.”
Out of respect for the families and the ongoing investigation, no further details regarding the cause of the crash have been released.
In response to the tragedy, the district announced that Friday night’s scheduled football game against South View High School has been postponed. School officials said the focus remains on helping students and staff cope with the devastating news.
“The top priority of the E.E. Smith High School administration is to provide support to students, faculty, and staff as they process this tragedy,” the district’s statement continued. “The district’s Student Services team is on-site today to offer counseling and emotional support.”
Grief counselors and support staff were present at the school Thursday morning, offering comfort and a safe space for students struggling to understand the sudden loss of their classmates and teammates.
E.E. Smith High School, home of the Golden Bulls, has a deep-rooted tradition of pride and community. Many current and former students have expressed their sorrow on social media, sharing memories and tributes to Trevor, Jaihyon, and Nick.
Community members have also gathered near the crash site on Rosehill Road, leaving flowers, balloons, and school colors in remembrance of the three young men whose lives were cut tragically short.
Trevor Merritt Fayetteville N.C, Car Accident: Three E.E. Smith High School
Trevor Merritt Fayetteville N.C, Car Accident: Three E.E. Smith High School
Cumberland County Schools thanked the public for their compassion and urged continued support for the students, families, and staff during this difficult time.
“We appreciate the community’s continued thoughts and support for E.E. Smith High School during this heartbreaking time,” the district said.
The Fayetteville Police Department’s Traffic Unit continues to investigate the cause of the crash.
