Tom Mya Lyons Obituary, Death – An 18-year-old senior at Homewood-Flossmoor High School tragically lost her life in a car crash early Sunday morning. Authorities confirmed that the single-vehicle accident occurred just after 4:30 a.m. on the Sibley Boulevard ramp leading to the northbound Bishop Ford Freeway.
Illinois State Police responded swiftly to the scene following reports of the crash. Upon arrival, they found a woman, later identified as Tom Mya Lyons, suffering from serious injuries. She was transported to a nearby hospital for emergency medical treatment but was sadly pronounced dead shortly after her arrival.
Tom Mya Lyons was a senior at Homewood-Flossmoor High School, a young woman preparing to graduate and begin a new chapter of her life. The tragic accident occurred just hours after the school’s prom, which had taken place Saturday night at Chicago’s Field Museum. The joyful occasion quickly turned into a time of mourning for students and staff as news of the crash began to spread throughout the school community.
In the wake of Lyons’ death, Homewood-Flossmoor High School officials released a heartfelt message to students, parents, and staff members. The statement, jointly issued by Superintendent Dr. Scott Wakeley and Principal Dr. Clinton Alexander, expressed deep sorrow over the sudden loss and offered condolences to Lyons’ family.
“This is a very sad day for the HF community,” the message read. “With permission from Tom Mya’s mother, we are sharing this news with the HF family to ensure everyone is aware of the tragic loss and the support resources available.”
Acknowledging that grief affects everyone differently, the message encouraged compassion and understanding. “Each of us will react to Tom Mya’s death in our own way, and we need to be respectful of each other,” it stated. “Some may feel deep sorrow, especially those who knew her well, while others might not have known her personally but still feel the emotional impact.”
The school emphasized that feelings of sadness, confusion, and even anger are normal during such a time of grief. Students and staff were reassured that support would be available to them beginning Monday, with grief counselors and members of the Crisis Team stationed across both the north and south buildings of the campus. Additionally, counselors would be present in each of Lyons’ classes on Monday and Tuesday to provide additional support.
In an effort to help students cope, the administration shared several suggestions for managing grief. These included speaking with a trusted adult such as a parent, teacher, counselor, or social worker, and making self-care a priority by eating regularly, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. The message also encouraged students to maintain as normal a routine as possible to help navigate the difficult days ahead.
The passing of Tom Mya Lyons has deeply affected the Homewood-Flossmoor community. Her death is not only a devastating loss for her family but also for her classmates and teachers who had watched her grow throughout her high school journey. Many who attended prom with her the night before the accident were especially shaken, as the celebration quickly turned into a heartbreaking memory.
Friends and classmates are expected to honor Lyons in the coming days through memorials, messages, and gatherings of remembrance. Though specific plans have not yet been announced, students and staff are rallying together in support of one another, exemplifying the strong sense of unity that the school community prides itself on.
While Illinois State Police continue to investigate the exact circumstances of the crash, no further details about what may have led to the accident have been released at this time. The fact that it involved a single vehicle may point to a loss of control, fatigue, or road conditions as potential factors, but authorities have not yet confirmed any cause.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus at Homewood-Flossmoor High School remains on healing and supporting those impacted by the tragedy. The administration has made it clear that the emotional well-being of students and staff is a top priority, and that the school will continue to provide resources for as long as they are needed.
The school community’s response to Lyons’ death underscores the importance of compassion, communication, and collective support during times of loss. Her memory will undoubtedly remain in the hearts of many, and her story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the strength of community in facing unimaginable grief.
In closing, the message from the school’s leaders offered a heartfelt reminder: “It is in difficult times like this that the HF family comes together to support each other. We are here for you.”