A tragic car accident in Asheville resulted in the death of a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) student and left two local students hospitalized. Charlotte Catholic High School confirmed via social media that two of their juniors were in intensive care after the incident, while the North Carolina State Highway Patrol reported two fatalities from the crash. The deceased were identified as 16-year-old Sophie Gordon from Charlotte and Robert Fox from Wilmette, Illinois.
Sophie Gordon was a junior at Myers Park High School, according to a statement released by the school expressing condolences and support for her family and friends. The accident occurred on Interstate 40 near Asheville around 11:30 p.m., with the N.C. Department of Transportation closing the roadway until 10 a.m. the following day. The vehicle, a 2015 Volvo passenger car, was traveling eastbound when the driver lost control while attempting to take an exit, ultimately colliding with a tree off the left side of the road.
One of our Myers Park Mustangs was in a car accident on Saturday night in Asheville, NC. We are deeply saddened to inform you that Sophie Gordon, a Junior at MPHS, was one of the passengers who died. We are praying for Sophie’s family & friends during this very difficult time. pic.twitter.com/uLKSqAMjbu
— Myers Park High (@MyersParkHS) April 7, 2024
Of the six teenagers in the vehicle during the crash, two lost their lives, two were critically injured and transported to a local hospital, and the driver and another passenger sustained minor injuries. As of now, no charges have been filed against the driver.
Charlotte Catholic students organized a prayer service to support the two juniors from their school involved in the accident, identified as Abby Lyn Robinson and Isabella Tarantelli, who were in the ICU at Mission Hospital in Asheville.
Prayers needed right now please. Charlotte Catholic Juniors: Abby Lyn Robinson and Isabella Tarantelli are currently in ICU at Mission Hospital in Asheville after a serious car accident. Please pray and share and pray again!
— Charlotte Catholic (@CCHSCougarNews) April 7, 2024
Myers Park High School announced the availability of a crisis response team on Monday to provide emotional support for students affected by the tragedy, with counselors being visibly present throughout the building. The community is deeply saddened by the loss of Sophie Gordon and Robert Fox, and thoughts and prayers are extended to all those impacted by this devastating event.