In the small city of Rosman, North Carolina, recent developments have unfolded regarding a tragic incident that claimed the lives of two high school students last August. The incident involved juniors Jayden Reynaldo and Layne Jones, who died in an ATV accident while driving on Old Wagon Road in the early hours of August 25.
According to state law enforcement, the students ran off the road and crashed into a tree at around 1 a.m., leading to their ejection from the vehicle. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. Initially, investigations by the North Carolina Highway Patrol suggested that the accident was likely due to excessive speed. However, as the inquiry progressed, authorities have indicated that alcohol may have played a role in this tragic accident.
On February 11, Ashley Marie Darity, aged 34, was arrested and charged with two counts of felony involuntary manslaughter. The specifics of her involvement during the time surrounding the accident are still under scrutiny, but records indicate that the offense occurred a day before the accident. Additionally, two other individuals, Brandon Kaine Rathbone, 47, and Patricia Faye Whitehead, 33, were arrested for their involvement in providing alcohol to underage individuals at a party prior to the accident.
Both Rathbone and Whitehead are accused of helping underage guests consume alcohol at a party, with Rathbone allegedly purchasing drinks for a 15-year-old and facilitating keg stands. Their actions are part of an ongoing investigation by the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement.
The community is still in mourning for Reynaldo and Jones, both of whom played on the Rosman High School football team. Following the accident, Transylvania County Schools issued a heartfelt statement expressing their grief and support for the families affected. Schools from around Western North Carolina also came together, showing their condolences on social media.
In a touching tribute, the Rosman football team dedicated their game against North Henderson to the memory of their fallen teammates, leaving their positions empty on the field and allowing the play clock to run out in remembrance of the two young athletes.
As the investigation continues, the community holds onto the memory of Reynaldo and Jones, mourning the loss of bright futures in their tragic accident.
