‘Tragic loss’: Triple fatal crash victims in Fayetteville identified as high school students; school district issues statement

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WNCN) — Three of the victims who died in the harrowing single-vehicle crash late Wednesday night on Rosehill Road were identified as high school students in Fayetteville.

According to officials with the Cumberland County Schools, the three who died were students at E.E. Smith High School. The officials said there will be grief support on site at the school for students, faculty and staff in lieu of this incident.

Officials issued this statement after CBS 17 reached out for comment:

We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of three E.E. Smith High School students following a single motor vehicle crash that occurred yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, loved ones and the entire E.E. Smith Golden Bulls community during this difficult time.

The top priority of the E.E. Smith High School administration is to provide support to students, faculty and staff as they process this tragedy. The district’s Student Services team will be on-site today to offer counseling and emotional support.

Out of respect for the families of those impacted and the school community, many of whom are still receiving this news, we are not releasing additional details at this time. This morning, there are no interview opportunities with the school administration as their focus remains on supporting students and staff.

We appreciate the community’s continued thoughts and support for E.E. Smith High School during this heartbreaking time.

Four people were victims of the crash that occurred late Wednesday night on the 2200 block of Rosehill Road. According to the Fayetteville Police Department, the vehicle ran off the road and hit a telephone pole.

The fourth victim of the crash was last reported to be in critical condition and airlifted from the scene to UNC Hospital Chapel Hill.

The identities of the victims in the crash have not been released at this time.