The Fayetteville community is in deep mourning after a tragic car crash on Wednesday evening claimed the lives of three E.E. Smith High School students, including beloved senior athlete Trevor Merritt.
The fatal accident occurred around 7:22 p.m. on Rosehill Road, when the vehicle carrying the four students reportedly veered off the roadway, struck a telephone pole, and then went down an embankment before coming to rest against a tree. First responders found three teens dead at the scene, while a fourth was airlifted to UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill in critical condition.
Authorities have identified the victims as #21 Jaihyon Elliot, #11 Trevor Merritt, and #4 Nick Williams — all members of the E.E. Smith High School football team.
Trevor Merritt, known for his bright smile, athletic talent, and kind spirit, was a senior student at E.E. Smith High School, where he played football, basketball, and ran track and field. Wearing #11 for the Varsity Football team, Trevor was weeks away from celebrating his 18th birthday.
His father, Jamaar Merritt, expressed the pain of losing his son in a heartfelt message:
“I know they say you’re not supposed to question God, but it hits different when it’s your own flesh and blood. My son had his whole life ahead of him and was weeks away from his 18th birthday. I don’t know how to feel. My heart goes out to the other two boys that lost their life so young… Long live Trevor Merritt.”
Friends, teammates, and teachers described Trevor as a natural leader with a passion for sports and an infectious energy that lifted those around him.
E.E. Smith High School confirmed that all three victims were members of its football program. In honor of their memory, the school has postponed its upcoming Friday night game against South View High School.
Grief counselors are being made available on campus to support students and staff as they process this unimaginable loss.
Images circulating online show the three young athletes — Jaihyon, Nick, and Trevor — smiling together, a photo that now serves as a heartbreaking reminder of lives gone far too soon.
The Fayetteville Police Department’s Traffic Unit continues to investigate the cause of the crash. No further details have been released at this time.
As the community comes together in prayer and remembrance, one message echoes across social media and memorial tributes:
“Long Live #11 — Trevor Merritt. Gone but never forgotten.”