LAKEWOOD, NJ – A Lacey Township High School student and former resident of Lakewood Township was killed in a tragic crash that claimed three lives and sent two to the hospital in critical condition this weekend.
Jayla M. Ortiz, 23, Ceasia Jefferson, and Dashaun Witter, 17, were identified as the three victims of the crash.
A grieving community comes together following the tragic loss of Dashaun Witter, affectionately known as “Daedae”, who sadly passed away in a car accident on October 7th. At just 17, Dashaun had his roots in Lakewood, NJ, resided in Lacey Township, and was a student at Lacey High School. Remembered for his love, care, and effervescence, Dashaun had a profound impact on all he met.
“It is with sadness that I inform you that we tragically lost a high school student on Saturday. We ask that you keep the family and all involved in your thoughts and prayers,” Lacey Township Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Vanessa Pereira said in a statement.
The District’s Crisis Team has met and stands at the ready to provide counseling and support services for our students, families, and staff who may or will be mourning the loss of our student. These services, in collaboration with the Traumatic Loss Coalition, will be available when students and staff return from the long weekend and will be in place as needed.
If you need immediate assistance, please contact Children’s Mobile Response and Stabilization Services at 877-652-7624 or E.M.B.R.A.C.E., which coordinates grief support groups for students and parents. They can be reached at 732-349-3535, ext. 707.
Compounding the family’s grief is the recent passing of Dashaun’s older cousin just a few weeks prior.
In these challenging times, the Witter family is reaching out for support. Organized by Shanita Witter, a fundraiser is in place to help with the impending funeral expenses and to provide some relief for the mourning family. Any assistance, no matter the amount, will be deeply appreciated by Dashaun’s loved ones. The collective effort will serve as a testament to the impact Dashaun had on his community and the love that surrounds him even in his absence.