FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Three high school students tragically lost their lives on October 8, 2025, following a street racing incident in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Authorities have charged 21-year-old Dymond Nekiya Monroe with multiple offenses, including three counts of involuntary manslaughter, in connection with the fatal crash.
According to Fayetteville police, the deadly crash occurred on Rosehill Road when Monroe was allegedly racing her sister, Destini Rhinada Genwright, in a high-speed street competition. Monroe reportedly lost control of her Honda Civic, which collided with a telephone pole before striking a tree. The violent impact resulted in the deaths of Monroe’s passengers, all E.E. Smith High School football players: 17-year-old Nicholas Williams, 17-year-old Trevor Merritt, and 18-year-old Jai’hyon Elliott. Monroe herself sustained serious injuries but was the sole survivor from the vehicle.
As of October 21, Monroe had not been formally arrested because she remains in critical condition at a local hospital. Nevertheless, charges have been officially filed against her. These include three counts of involuntary manslaughter, willful speed competition, speeding, careless and reckless driving, and an insurance violation.
Monroe’s sister, Destini Rhinada Genwright, who was allegedly participating in the street race, has also been charged. Genwright faces charges of willful speed competition, speeding, careless and reckless driving, and an insurance violation. Authorities have encouraged Genwright to turn herself in to police.
The Fayetteville Police Department emphasized the dangers of street racing, noting that this tragic incident highlights the devastating consequences of reckless driving. “Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims during this incredibly difficult time,” a police spokesperson said. “Street racing is illegal and extremely dangerous, and this crash serves as a tragic reminder of that reality.”
Community members, especially students and parents associated with E.E. Smith High School, have expressed deep sorrow and shock at the loss of the three young men, who were described by peers as talented athletes and promising young individuals. Local school officials have offered grief counseling to students and staff impacted by the tragedy.
This incident marks yet another deadly reminder of the risks associated with illegal street racing in North Carolina and across the nation. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash and have urged anyone with information to come forward.
As Dymond Nekiya Monroe recovers in the hospital, legal proceedings are expected to move forward once she is medically cleared. Meanwhile, the families of Nicholas Williams, Trevor Merritt, and Jai’hyon Elliott, along with the broader Fayetteville community, are grappling with the devastating loss of three promising young lives in a preventable accident.