Trevor Merritt Fayetteville, North Carolina, Car Accident: Three E.E. Smith High School Students Died in a Tragic Rosehill Road Accident

 Three E.E. Smith High School students, Trevor Merritt, Jaihyon Elliott, and Nick Williams, lost their lives in a single-vehicle collision on Rosehill Road late Wednesday night, leaving the Fayetteville community in shock.

Police in Fayetteville claimed that the teens were involved in an accident late at night when their automobile went off the road and struck a tree. When emergency personnel came, they found the car severely damaged, and sadly, all three of the occupants were pronounced dead at the spot.

Cumberland County Schools confirmed the names of the deceased Thursday morning, stating that all of them were varsity football players and students at E.E. Smith High School.

"This is an incomprehensible loss," a statement from school officials read. "The families, friends, and entire E.E. Smith Golden Bulls community are in our prayers and thoughts during this tragic time."

No further details on the cause of the crash have been released in order to respect the families involved and to keep the inquiry ongoing.

The district announced that the Friday night football game versus South View High School has been postponed in response to this tragedy. Officials at the school stressed that helping staff and children cope with the heartbreaking news is their top concern.

The district's statement went on to say, "The administration of E.E. Smith High School is primarily concerned with supporting students, faculty, and staff as they cope with this tragedy." 

Grief counselors and other support staff were present at the school on Thursday morning, offering children who were struggling with the sudden loss of their colleagues and friends comfort and a secure environment.

As the home of the Golden Bulls, E.E. Smith High School has a long history of fostering a sense of community pride. Numerous students, both past and present, have shared their condolences and respects to Trevor, Jaihyon, and Nick on social media.

In remembrance of the three young men whose lives were cut so suddenly, neighborhood members have also congregated to the scene of the accident on Rosehill Road and left flowers, balloons, and school colors.

In addition to thanking the public for their compassion, Cumberland County Schools urged more assistance for the staff, families, and kids at this trying time.

The district said, "We appreciate the community's continued support and thoughts for E.E. Smith High School during this difficult time."

The circumstances surrounding the collision are currently being looked into by the Fayetteville Police Department's Traffic Unit.