Trevor Merritt Fayetteville N.C, Vehicle Collision: Three Students from E.E. Smith High School Lost Their Lives in a Devastating Accident on Rosehill Road

 The Fayetteville community is in shock after the tragic loss of three E.E. Smith High School students — named Trevor Merritt, Jaihyon Elliott, and Nick Williams — who were killed in a single-vehicle accident late Wednesday evening on Rosehill Road.

As reported by the Fayetteville police, the accident happened late at night when the car the teenagers were in veered off the road and collided with a tree. Emergency services arrived to discover the vehicle extensively damaged, and unfortunately, all three individuals inside were declared dead at the scene.

On Thursday morning, Cumberland County Schools verified the names of those who perished, noting that they were all students at E.E. Smith High School and part of the varsity football team.

"This is an unthinkable loss," said school representatives in a statement. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and the entire E.E. Smith Golden Bulls community as they mourn this heartbreaking tragedy."

To honor the families involved and regarding the ongoing investigation, no additional information about the crash's cause has been disclosed.

In light of this tragedy, the district revealed that the football match planned for Friday evening against South View High School has been postponed. School officials emphasized that their priority is to assist students and staff in dealing with the devastating news.

"The foremost concern of the E.E. Smith High School administration is to provide support to students, faculty, and staff as they come to terms with this tragedy," continued the district's statement. "Today, the district’s Student Services team is present at the school to deliver counseling and emotional assistance."

On Thursday morning, grief counselors and support personnel were on-site at the school, providing solace and a safe environment for students grappling with the unexpected loss of their peers and teammates.

E.E. Smith High School, recognized as the home of the Golden Bulls, has a rich heritage of community pride. Many current and former students have taken to social media to express their grief, sharing fond memories and tributes in honor of Trevor, Jaihyon, and Nick.

Members of the community have also gathered at the location of the accident on Rosehill Road, leaving flowers, balloons, and school colors to commemorate the three young men whose lives were ended so abruptly.

Cumberland County Schools expressed gratitude to the public for their empathy and encouraged continued support for the students, families, and staff during this challenging period.

"We are thankful for the ongoing thoughts and support from the community for E.E. Smith High School during this sorrowful time," the district stated.

The Traffic Unit of the Fayetteville Police Department is still investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.