Lunenburg 18-year-old killed in crash on his graduation day
VENN
LUNENBURG COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- A Lunenburg County 18-year-old was killed in a car crash in Campbell County on his graduation day.
On Saturday, May 24, Central High School in Lunenburg held its graduation ceremony. One of the many graduates in attendance was 18-year-old Jemiere C. Hite.
Later that day, just before 4:45 p.m., state troopers with Virginia State Police were called to Gladys Road in Campbell County for a reported single-vehicle crash.
According to state police, a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu was moving east on Gladys Road when it went off the right side of the road, went down into and up an embankment, then hit a tree.
Four people were in the car at the time, including Hite, two other passengers and the driver of the Malibu, 23-year-old John E. Witcher, Jr. of the Lynch Station area of Campbell. All four of them were seriously hurt.
Hite later died at an area hospital as a result of those injuries.
Jemeire C. Hite, a Central High School graduate, on his graduation day. (Photo: Lunenburg County Public Schools)
Sharon Stanislas, superintendent of Lunenburg County Public Schools, issued the following statement in the wake of Hite's death:
"It is with deep sorrow that we acknowledge the passing of Jemeire C. Hite, a cherished member of the Central High School Class of 2025. Jemeire graduated on May 24, full of promise and pride. His loss is felt deeply across our school community.
On behalf of Lunenburg County Public Schools, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Jemeire’s family, friends, and loved ones. We grieve with you and stand with you during this difficult time.
School counselors are available to support students and staff as we cope with this loss. Jemeire’s memory will forever remain a part of our school family." Sharon Stanislas, superintendent of Lunenburg County Public Schools
Witcher has been charged with reckless driving. State police said no one in the Malibu was wearing a seatbelt.
The crash remains under investigation. No additional information is available as of the time of reporting.
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According to a spokesperson for GoFundMe, you can donate to this fundraiser to help Hite's family cover his medical and funeral costs, among other expenses.
