Spartanburg County School Mourns Loss of Three Students in Tragic Crash
SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. – A school district is reeling from the tragic loss of three students who perished in a horrific crash on Saturday night. Ashton Olley, Jaicurious Gist, and Jalecia Gist, students at Spartanburg School District, were involved in a fatal accident that claimed their lives and that of two others.
Family Tragedy
The three children, siblings aged 8, 11, and 14, were on their way home when a devastating collision occurred on I-26 and SC 292 in South Carolina. The car they were traveling in was struck by a car hauler, resulting in a fiery crash that claimed the lives of all five occupants.
Heartfelt Tribute
Expressing their sorrow, Spartanburg School District posted on Facebook, saying, “Ashton, Jaicurious, and Jalecia were all loving students with infectious smiles. May the memories of our precious students live on forever.” The close-knit school community is in shock and mourning the untimely loss of the three young lives.
Victims Identified
Along with the students, 35-year-old Ashia Ballenger was also confirmed to have lost her life in the tragic accident. Authorities are awaiting DNA results to conclusively identify the fifth victim, believed to be 57-year-old Leroy Covington.
Community in Grief
The entire Spartanburg County community is unified in grief as they come to terms with the loss of these young lives. The tragic incident has left a deep impact on the families, school staff, and classmates of the students, who are struggling to cope with the devastating news.
Efforts to Support
Counseling services and support are being provided by the school district to help students, staff, and families navigate through this challenging time. The community has also come together to offer condolences, support, and assistance to the families affected by the tragedy.
Remembering Their Smiles
The memories of Ashton, Jaicurious, and Jalecia will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved them. Their bright smiles and kind spirits have left an indelible mark on the Spartanburg County School District and beyond.
Conclusion
As the Spartanburg County community mourns the loss of these three precious students, the impact of the tragic crash serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life. The school district continues to rally around those affected, offering support, comfort, and solidarity during this difficult time of grief and sadness.