News Summary
A heartbreaking car accident in metro Atlanta resulted in the deaths of three members of the Stillman College community, including a student and two recent alumni. Sieas Elliott, Destiny Gardner, and Varick Lawrence were honored for their contributions and leadership in their communities. As the college and local areas rally in grief, the loss is deeply felt among friends, family, and the college community.
Metro Atlanta – A tragic car accident on Friday night claimed the lives of three members of the Stillman College community, including a current student and two alumni. The victims were identified as Sieas Elliott, a current student; Destiny Gardner, an alumna; and Varick Lawrence, also an alumnus. This devastating incident occurred in the metro Atlanta area, specifically near the intersection of Interstate 75 and Old Dixie Road in Forest Park.
Sieas Elliott, who hailed from Stockbridge, Georgia, was planning to return to Stillman College for the 2025–2026 academic year to complete his degree and serve as a student assistant baseball coach. He was particularly known for his leadership skills both on and off the field and was actively involved in the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.. Varick Lawrence, a native of Lithonia, graduated from Stillman College in 2023 and was recognized as a dedicated youth baseball coach in the metro Atlanta area. Additionally, Destiny Gardner, originally from Montgomery, Alabama, graduated in 2022 with a degree in criminal justice and held a position as a juvenile officer at the DeKalb Regional Youth Detention Center. Gardner and Lawrence shared a young son together.
In response to the tragic news, Stillman College President Dr. Yolanda W. Page expressed that the incident is “a terrible tragedy for everyone in our Stillman family” and highlighted the positive impact that the victims had through their warm personalities and leadership. Furthermore, Terrance Whittle, the Director of Athletics at Stillman College, conveyed deep sorrow over the loss, noting that the contributions of the three individuals to the college were invaluable and will be profoundly missed.
The community is coming together to mourn the loss of these exceptional individuals, with extended condolences to their families, friends, classmates, and teammates. Elliott and Lawrence, who attended Jonesboro High School and MLK Jr. High School together, were recognized as respected mentors and examples of leadership in their community. The Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice also mourned the passing of Destiny Gardner, emphasizing her kindness and dedication to her work.
As the college and local communities grapple with this tragedy, the memories and positive legacies left by the three victims are being honored. The impact of this incident has resonated deeply within the Stillman College community and beyond, highlighting the significant roles each of them played in their spheres of influence. Atlanta News First is actively seeking further details about the crash and will continue to provide updates as information becomes available. The crash has deeply affected family members and the college community, leaving many in profound mourning.
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