Three North Carolina high school football players killed in car crash

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — A North Carolina community is grieving the loss of three high school football players killed in a car crash on Oct. 8. Authorities say the crash occurred after two sisters allegedly raced their vehicles at high speeds following football practice, reports WRAL.

North Carolina high school football players killed in a car crash

Jai-Hyon Elliott, 18, Nicholas Williams, 17, and Trevor Merritt, 17, died when a Honda Civic veered off Rosehill Road and struck a telephone pole, WRAL reports. All three teens played for E.E. Smith High School’s Golden Bulls football team.

Crash details

According to Fayetteville police, Dymond Monroe, 21, was driving the Honda Civic. Her younger sister, Destini Genwright, 19, allegedly raced her in a separate vehicle. The sisters were reportedly en route to their younger brother’s birthday party.

Monroe remains hospitalized in critical condition. She faces four misdemeanor charges and three felony counts of involuntary manslaughter. Genwright turned herself in on Oct. 21 and was released on a $10,000 bond. She is charged with reckless driving, unlawful street racing, speeding, and driving without insurance.

Court documents allege Monroe was traveling 92 mph in a 45 mph zone. Genwright was reportedly driving 76 mph in the same zone.

“This is one of the most tragic cases I’ve seen,” said Cumberland County District Attorney Billy West, WRAL reported. “Even though there is sympathy, there also has to be accountability”.

Remembering beloved football players

Since the crash, E.E. Smith High School has honored the players with tributes and memorials. During the team’s first game back on Oct. 17, players carried the late teens’ jerseys to midfield. Helmet stickers and towels bore their numbers. Parents wore clothing with inspirational messages.

Dr. Eric C. Bracy, superintendent of Cumberland County Schools, expressed deep sorrow. “We are heartbroken,” he said, WYFF reports. “We stand with their families, loved ones, classmates, teammates and school family as they grieve this devastating loss”.

Meanwhile, the Fayetteville Police Department continues its investigation. Officials say more information may be released as evidence is analyzed.