Stillman College Car Accident Leaves Campus Stunned: Victim Identities, Cause, and Latest Updates

Tuscaloosa, Ala.—The Stillman College community is grieving after a devastating car accident in the Atlanta metro area claimed the lives of one current student and two recent alumni on Friday, May 23, 2025. Victims identified • Sieas Elliot, 22, of Stockbridge, Ga., a member of Omega Psi Phi who had just completed his senior baseball season and planned to return next year as a student-assistant coach. • Destiny Gardner, 24, of Montgomery, former 74th Miss Stillman (2021-2022), Delta Sigma Theta sorority member, UNCF National Pre-Alumni Council regional representative and 2022 criminal-justice graduate employed as a juvenile officer in DeKalb County, Ga.. • Varick Lawrence, 23, of Lithonia, Ga., 2023 graduate and former Tigers baseball standout who coached youth baseball in Atlanta and was also an Omega Psi Phi member. College response President Dr. Yolanda W. Page called the tragedy “heartbreaking,” noting that the trio’s “warm smiles and welcoming personalities” defined campus life. Director of Athletics Terrance Whittle remembered Elliot and Lawrence as “sons” he coached and praised Gardner’s campus leadership, emphasizing that their legacies will endure through the relationships they forged. Jean Wilson, Director of Alumni Affairs, said Gardner and Lawrence “embodied the spirit of Stillman College—determined, compassionate, and always striving for excellence”. Impact on the HBCU family The accident has sent shockwaves through the historic Tuscaloosa HBCU, where counseling services and chaplain support have been extended to students, faculty and alumni. Campus organizations—including Greek-letter fraternities and sororities, athletics, and the Student Government Association—are organizing vigils and a joint memorial service; details will be released once arrangements with the families are finalized. Baseball community mourns Elliot and Lawrence were instrumental in Stillman’s recent success on the diamond. Coaches across the Southern States Athletic Conference have posted tributes on social media, while former teammates plan to wear black armbands during summer league play. Remembering Destiny Gardner As Miss Stillman, Gardner championed student mental-health awareness and spearheaded multiple service projects. “She leaves behind a blueprint for servant leadership,” noted SGA President Kayla Morgan, who worked closely with Gardner during UNCF fundraising campaigns. Gardner and Lawrence are survived by their young son, and classmates have launched a scholarship fund in his name. Ongoing investigation Georgia authorities have not yet released the official crash report. Preliminary information indicates the single-vehicle accident occurred shortly after 11 p.m. Friday on I-285; no additional vehicles were involved. Toxicology and mechanical inspections are pending, and updates will be provided when the report becomes public. How to help • Donate to the Stillman College Emergency Relief Fund, which will assist the families with funeral expenses and establish the Destiny Gardner & Varick Lawrence Legacy Scholarship. • Contribute to the Sieas Elliot Memorial Baseball Endowment supporting Tigers student-athletes. • Students in need of grief counseling can contact the Office of Student Development at 205-366-8817 or visit the campus counseling center in Stinson Hall. As Stillman College prepares for summer classes, the campus is united in honoring three lives dedicated to academic excellence, athletic achievement and community service. Funeral and memorial details will be shared on the Stillman College website and social channels as soon as they are confirmed.