Tragic Loss of North Carolina Football Stars: Jai'Hyon Elliott and Friends

E.E. Smith High School Football Stars Jai'Hyon Elliott, 18, and Teammates Fall in Devastating Crash; Mother Jasmine Davis Shares Grief

Promising athletes Jai'Hyon Elliott, Trevor Merritt, and Nicholas Williams, set to graduate from E.E. Smith High School in 2026, tragically lost their lives in a fatal incident on Rosehill Road.

The Fayetteville Police Department reports that their 2026 Honda Civic, driven by Dymond N. Monroe, veered off the road, struck a pole, and collided with a tree around 7:30 p.m. on October 8, 2026.

All three students were pronounced dead at the scene, while Monroe sustained critical injuries and was airlifted to UNC Hospitals.

Family and friends mourn the loss of these exceptional young men, who were key members of the varsity football team.

Jai'Hyon Elliott and Nicholas Williams played defensive backs, while Trevor Merritt was a linebacker.

Community leaders, including Mayor Mitch Colvin and Sheriff Roderick Virgil, have offered condolences and support to the grieving family.

Memorials have formed at the crash site, with tributes pouring in from classmates and local groups.

Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Officer C. Lewis at 910-818-1872 or reach out to Crimestoppers anonymously.

Heartfelt Tribute from Jasmine Davis to Her Son Jai'Hyon Elliott

Jasmine Davis shared a moving Instagram story honoring her son's memory, expressing immense pride and sorrow.

“SCREAMING HAPPY 18th BIRTHDAY my SONNNN Jai'hyon ! @21problemes 18 years ago I learned the true meaning of LOVE ! So proud of the young man you are and the person you are destined to be ! Keep shining bright and accomplishing everything you desire ! My Sonshine forever 🎉🎉🎉🎉.”

Jasmine, a proud alumna of Fayetteville Technical Community College, graduated in Healthcare Management Technology from Seventy-First High School in 2009.

Active in school, she enjoyed bowling and art, and worked as a customer service rep and volunteer.

She is survived by her children Amiris and Messiah, plus extended family.