Miami v Maryland
Miami Hurricanes helmets line the field as the Hurricanes warm up before the start of their game against the Maryland Terrapins at Byrd Stadium on September 5, 2011 in College Park, Maryland. Rob Carr/Getty Images

A tragic car crash in Largo, Florida, left the community reeling after the deaths of three occupants of a Kia Soul, including two young children. The accident occurred at 1:45 p.m. local time and led to an ongoing investigation by the Largo Police Department. The victims were identified as 10-year-old Jabari Elijah Solomon, 4-year-old Charlie Herbert Solomon Riveria, and the driver, 78-year-old Gail Price. These individuals died at the scene, prompting grief and shock from the local community and beyond.

The accident involved a collision between a Kia Soul and a Dodge Durango driven by University of Miami linebacker Adarius Hayes, a native of Largo and a notable figure in college football. Hayes was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. USA Today reported that several others were also hospitalized with serious injuries, including 58-year-old Herbert Rivera, the adult front passenger of the Kia Soul.

As a four-star prospect out of Largo High School, Hayes was considered one of the nation's most promising young athletes, having rejected offers from prestigious programs such as Alabama and Notre Dame to commit to the University of Miami. In his freshman season, Hayes participated in 12 games for the Miami Hurricanes, primarily on special teams. He was credited with four tackles and one interception returned for 25 yards during a victory over Florida A&M.

The Largo Police Department confirmed that the crash was under active investigation. "This is an ongoing and active investigation, and no further information is available for release at this time," said police spokeswoman Megan Santo, according to the New York Post. Investigators are particularly interested in whether speed played a role, although they do not currently believe alcohol was a factor, noting the absence of signs of impairment in either driver.

The police responded to the crash, where a witness reportedly noted the area is known for drivers "hot rodding" at speeds reaching 80 mph. The Independent spoke to an anonymous bystander who claimed the accident was inevitable due to the fast driving in the area.

In response to the incident, several of Hayes' teammates and other figures within the University of Miami football program expressed support for the young linebacker. Fellow linebacker Raul Aguirre took to the social media platform X, writing, "Got you bro🤞🏼🙏🏻 keep fighting." The support from his teammates highlights the close-knit nature of the Hurricanes football team and their solidarity during difficult times.

The crash serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictability of such tragic events. It has prompted calls for greater awareness and caution on the roads to prevent future tragedies. As the investigation continues, the community awaits more details, hoping for clarity and justice for the victims.

While the focus remains on the investigation and the grief surrounding the loss of life, the incident also touches upon broader issues within the sports community and its responsibility to address the conduct and safety of its players off the field. As the story develops, it underscores the pressing need for vigilance and responsibility, both on the road and within the structures that support young athletes like Hayes.