Fayetteville, NC — Two sisters have been charged in connection with a deadly street racing crash that killed three E.E. Smith High School football players earlier this month, according to the Fayetteville Police Department.
The crash occurred on October 8 around 7 p.m. in the 2700 block of Rosehill Road, near the intersection of Walstone Road. Police say a 2024 Honda Civic veered off the road and slammed into a tree, killing three teenage passengers.
Victims Were High School Football Players
The victims were identified as Jai’Hyon Lamont Elliot, Trevor Merritt, and Nicholas Williams, all students at E.E. Smith High School and members of the school’s football team. The devastating crash has shaken the Fayetteville community and left classmates mourning their loss.
“All three young men were members of the E.E. Smith football team,” police confirmed in a statement, calling the crash a heartbreaking tragedy that has impacted the entire school community.
The driver of the Honda Civic, 21-year-old Dymond Monroe of Fayetteville, was airlifted to UNC Hospital Chapel Hill with serious injuries.
According to The Hill, Monroe has been charged with three counts of involuntary manslaughter, willful speed competition, speeding, careless and reckless driving, and an insurance violation following consultation with the Cumberland County District Attorney’s Office.
“The charges reflect the severity of the reckless behavior that led to this tragic loss of young lives,” investigators said.
Second Sister Also Charged
Police also charged Destini Rhinada Genwright, Monroe’s sister, who was allegedly driving another vehicle on Rosehill Road at the same time. Investigators believe both were engaged in willful speed competition before the crash occurred.
Genwright faces charges of willful speed competition, speeding, careless and reckless driving, and insurance violation.
“Officers with the FPD’s Traffic Unit have been in contact with Destini Genwright and are encouraging her to turn herself into authorities,” police said. “We would encourage family and/or friends to assist in coordinating this process.”
As of Tuesday afternoon, police said Genwright had not yet been taken into custody.
Investigation and Evidence
Authorities confirmed that Genwright’s 2023 Dodge Charger has been seized by the department’s Traffic Unit as part of the investigation. Monroe, meanwhile, remains hospitalized but in stable condition.
Detectives continue to examine surveillance footage, vehicle data, and eyewitness reports to determine the full sequence of events leading to the deadly crash.
“Our investigators believe excessive speed and racing behavior were key factors,” said a Fayetteville Police Department spokesperson.
Community Mourns the Loss of Three Students
The deaths of the three E.E. Smith High School students have left an enormous void in the Fayetteville community. Vigils and memorials have been held at the school’s football field, where classmates, teachers, and coaches gathered to honor their memory.
Parents and community leaders are urging young drivers to understand the dangers of speed competitions and reckless driving.
“No thrill or race is worth the cost of a life,” said one local parent during a memorial service.
The Fayetteville Police Department continues to work closely with the Cumberland County District Attorney’s Office as the case proceeds.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking tragedy and how communities can raise awareness about street racing dangers? Share your views in the comments below.
