Denis Aguilar Campos, Chelsea, Massachusetts – Bryant University officials have confirmed that two students died following a serious traffic crash on Route 146 that occurred overnight. University President Ross Gittell shared the news with the campus community, describing the loss as a profound tragedy for students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
According to information released by the Rhode Island State Police, the incident happened shortly after midnight when authorities received multiple emergency calls about a vehicle traveling in the wrong direction on a nearby roadway. Soon afterward, additional calls reported a crash involving that same vehicle on Route 146 in the town of Lincoln.
Investigators later determined that a pickup truck driven by an adult male from Massachusetts was traveling the wrong way when it collided with another vehicle. The driver of the pickup truck also died as a result of the crash. Authorities have stated that the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing.
The two individuals in the second vehicle were identified as Bryant University students. University officials confirmed their deaths later that morning after being notified by law enforcement.
In a message to the campus community, President Gittell identified the students as Jaylin Rainford of Randolph, Massachusetts, and Chiemelie David Okonkwo of Lawrenceville, Georgia. Both were juniors at Bryant University and were described as highly engaged and valued members of the campus community.
According to the university, Rainford was a member of the track team and also served as a resident assistant, roles that reflected his leadership and involvement on campus. Okonkwo was active in several student organizations and held leadership positions connected to campus diversity and student engagement initiatives. University leaders noted that both students made meaningful contributions to campus life and were well known among their peers.
President Gittell expressed condolences to the families, friends, classmates, and all those affected by the loss. He encouraged members of the Bryant community to support one another during this difficult time and to remember the positive impact both students had during their time at the university.
The university also announced that support services are being made available for students, faculty, and staff who may be struggling in the aftermath of the tragedy. Counseling and spiritual support resources have been activated on campus to provide assistance and space for reflection and grief.
State police have not released additional details about the crash and have not announced whether any further findings are expected. Officials emphasized that incidents involving wrong-way driving are taken seriously and are carefully reviewed to understand how they occur and how future risks can be reduced.
The investigation remains open, and authorities have said more information will be shared if and when it becomes available.
