Authorities in Fayetteville have taken a young woman into custody following her release from the hospital, where she had been recovering from injuries sustained in a devastating crash that occurred one month earlier. The collision claimed the lives of three E.E. Smith High School students, prompting an extensive police investigation that has now resulted in multiple charges.
On Wednesday, officers arrested 21-year-old Dymond Nekiya Monroe, who had been hospitalized since the incident. The Fayetteville Police Department announced that Monroe is now facing a series of criminal counts, including three charges of involuntary manslaughter, as well as accusations of willful speed competition, speeding, careless and reckless driving, and an insurance-related offense. These charges stem from a tragic event that rocked the community in early October.
Investigators say the deadly crash occurred on October 8, shortly after Monroe and her sister had picked up three E.E. Smith High School football players—Trevor Merritt, Jai’Hyon Elliott, and Nick Williams—following their practice session. According to police, the two sisters were reportedly involved in an illegal street race at the time of the accident. Authorities allege that both vehicles were speeding along Rosehill Road when Monroe lost control of her car.
The vehicle is believed to have first struck a telephone pole, and the impact sent it careening further down the roadway. Police say the car continued onto the sidewalk, where it ultimately crashed into a tree. The severity of the collision caused life-threatening injuries to the three teenage passengers, all of whom later died. The loss of the young athletes—each known for their talents and bright futures—left their school and community in mourning.
Monroe herself suffered serious injuries and was transported to UNC Health, where she remained for several weeks while undergoing treatment. Even while she was hospitalized, law enforcement officials moved forward with the legal process. Charges were formally filed during her stay in the medical facility, ensuring that she would be taken into custody once she was released.
With her hospital care now complete, Monroe was transferred directly into police custody. She is currently being held at the Cumberland County Detention Center under a $300,000 secured bond. Authorities confirmed that her first court appearance has been scheduled for Thursday at 2:30 p.m., where she will face a judge and hear the charges presented against her.
The crash continues to weigh heavily on the community, particularly for the families of the three students whose lives were cut short. Merritt, Elliott, and Williams were all part of the E.E. Smith High School football program and were known for their dedication to their sport, their friendships, and their school community. Tributes and memorials emerged in the days following the crash, reflecting the deep sense of grief felt by classmates, coaches, and local residents.
Police have reiterated their warnings about the dangers of street racing and reckless driving, emphasizing that high-speed competition on public roads poses a deadly risk to everyone involved. The ongoing legal proceedings aim to provide accountability and underscore the seriousness with which authorities take such offenses.
As the investigation continues, Monroe’s arrest marks a significant development in a case that has drawn widespread attention and sorrow. The coming court process will determine the next steps, but for now, the focus for many remains on honoring the memories of the three young students whose lives were tragically lost.
