Lawndale, North Carolina – Two Burns High School students, 17-year-old Dequavious Hopper and 14-year-old Jaelyn Abraham, tragically passed away in a devastating car accident outside Burns High School on East Stage Coach Trail in Lawndale. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon, September 18, 2024, as the students were leaving the school.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the fatal crash happened around 4 p.m. when the vehicle carrying the students was struck by a pickup truck. Both Hopper and Abraham were prominent athletes at their school. Hopper was a well-known figure in the athletic community, while Abraham played on the school’s basketball team.
A third student, identified only as Zae, was critically injured in the accident and was air-lifted to a Cleveland hospital. Zae is also an athletic student at Burns High School. The entire school community is grieving this tragic loss.
Cleveland County Schools released a heartfelt statement following the incident, saying, “We are deeply saddened to share about the accident at Burns High School. Our hearts go out to their families, friends, and all who loved them. This loss impacts our entire school community.” The school district has announced that counselors will be available in the coming days to provide support for students.
The community has shown an outpouring of support on social media. Mike Jackson shared his condolences on Facebook, writing, “Prayers and condolences to the family, friends & classmates of the two Burns High School students, Dequavious Hopper and Jaelyn Abraham, who lost their lives today as they were leaving school (R.I.P.). Praying for a full and speedy recovery for 16-year-old Xzavier Sanders that was injured in the accident today. Overall, praying for the citizens of Lawndale.”
Other community members expressed their grief and support as well. Raffi Yansa commented, “Prayers for his family and friends! So heart breaking,” while Doris Gray shared, “So sad prayers for her family and friends. Heartbreaking rest in peace.”
The tragic accident is under investigation by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. The families of Dequavious Hopper and Jaelyn Abraham are in the thoughts and prayers of the entire community as they navigate through this incredibly difficult time. The funeral arrangements for Hopper will be announced by the family at a later date.