The Forsyth County community is mourning the devastating loss of four young men who died in a tragic crash on Interstate 40 westbound on Sunday, October 12, 2025. The fatal collision caused the highway to remain closed for several hours as authorities worked to investigate the cause and clear the scene.
Wanted: Jerome Anthony Davis for Traffic Stop Incident in Richmond County, Georgia
The Accident
The crash occurred early Sunday morning, and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol is still investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. According to family members, one of the victims, DJ Vimli, had his phone send out an emergency SOS alert, signaling that an accident had occurred.
His mother, Tanisha Gayles, described the harrowing moment she received the alert. The family immediately began a five-hour drive to the crash site, clinging to hope but uncertain of what awaited them.
Gayles shared, “We didn’t know anything. All we knew was that there had been an accident and that emergency services had been contacted. We were driving around hoping, praying for the best.”
Victims Identified
When the families arrived at the crash site, their worst fears were confirmed. The victims were identified as DJ Vimli, Eliza Brown, and Marcus Feiffer, along with a fourth unidentified man whose name has not yet been released. Families later placed a cross at the crash site in remembrance of their sons and friends, a somber symbol of their love and loss.
Eliza Brown’s mother, Tia Birdie, expressed her anguish, saying, “I hope he’s not my son. I hope I can wake up and he’ll say, ‘Hey, Mom. You know it wasn’t me.’”
Tribute to the Victims
DJ Vimli, a new student at Howard University in Washington, D.C., had dreams of becoming a sports medicine physician. His mother recalled that he had recently joined the university’s football team, something he had long aspired to achieve. “His goal was to become a sports medicine physician. He also joined Howard University’s football team,” Gayles said tearfully.
Marcus Feiffer’s mother shared her son’s favorite saying, “God’s got me,” which she is holding onto as a source of comfort during this unimaginably painful time.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have yet to release full details about what caused the accident. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The families are currently preparing to bring their sons home to Virginia for burial, supported by friends, loved ones, and community members who have come together to help them navigate this tragedy.
Community Support and Mourning
The Forsyth County and Virginia communities have united to show love and compassion to the grieving families. Candlelight vigils, fundraisers, and social media tributes have been shared in memory of the four young men, honoring their lives and the bright futures cut short too soon.
This devastating crash serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones.
Conclusion – A Community United in Grief
As the investigation continues, the families of DJ Vimli, Eliza Brown, Marcus Feiffer, and the unidentified victim are focused on honoring their sons’ memories and finding strength through faith and community. Their loss has left a deep scar on all who knew them, but their stories of love, determination, and friendship will live on.
May they rest in eternal peace.