Trevor Merritt Fayetteville N.C, Car Accident: Three Students from E.E. Smith High School Tragically Died in a Horrific Incident on Rosehill Road

 The Fayetteville community is reeling from the heartbreaking demise of three students from E.E. Smith High School—Trevor Merritt, Jaihyon Elliott, and Nick Williams—who tragically lost their lives in a late-night single-vehicle crash on Rosehill Road.

According to the Fayetteville police, the incident took place late in the evening when the car transporting the teenagers went off course and struck a tree. First responders arrived to find the vehicle severely wrecked, and, regrettably, all three occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.

On Thursday morning, Cumberland County Schools confirmed the identities of the deceased individuals, stating that they were all part of the E.E. Smith High School and members of the varsity football squad.

"This is a loss that is beyond comprehension," stated representatives from the school in a released statement. "Our hearts and prayers go out to the families, friends, and the entire E.E. Smith Golden Bulls community as they grieve this devastating event."

Out of respect for the families and due to the ongoing investigation, no further details regarding the cause of the accident have been made available.

In response to this tragedy, the district announced the postponement of the football game scheduled for Friday night against South View High School. School administrators stressed that their priority is to provide support for students and staff in light of this distressing news.

"The primary concern of the E.E. Smith High School administration is to offer assistance to the students, faculty, and staff as they cope with this tragedy," the district's statement read. "Today, the district's Student Services team is available at the school to provide counseling and emotional support."

Grief counselors and support staff were present at the school on Thursday morning, offering comfort and a supportive space for students dealing with the sudden loss of their friends and teammates.

E.E. Smith High School, known as the home of the Golden Bulls, has a deep legacy of community pride. Numerous current and former students have turned to social media to convey their sorrow, sharing cherished memories and tributes to honor Trevor, Jaihyon, and Nick.

Community members have also congregated at the accident site on Rosehill Road, leaving flowers, balloons, and school colors as a tribute to the three young men whose lives were cut short so suddenly.

Cumberland County Schools expressed appreciation for the community's compassion and encouraged ongoing support for the students, families, and staff during this difficult time.

"We appreciate the continuous thoughts and support from the community for E.E. Smith High School during this painful period," stated the district.

The Fayetteville Police Department's Traffic Unit continues to look into the details surrounding the accident.