Columbus, Ohio – The Columbus community is in mourning following the tragic deaths of twin brothers Samuel and Joel Beyene, both 19 years old, after a devastating wrong-way crash on East Livingston Avenue. The incident, which occurred early Sunday morning, also claimed the life of 32-year-old Deandra Brigham, who was driving a Nissan Altima.
Samuel Beyene was behind the wheel of a Dodge Charger when the vehicle collided head-on with the Nissan Altima. The impact was severe, resulting in Samuel being rushed to Grant Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. His twin brother, Joel Beyene, who was also in the Dodge, succumbed to his injuries a day later at the same hospital.
A third person, a 21-year-old passenger in the Dodge Charger, was taken to Mount Carmel East in serious condition. The identity and current status of this individual have not been released by authorities.
According to initial reports, Samuel Beyene was driving west in the eastbound lanes at approximately 70 mph in a 35 mph zone when the collision occurred. The accident took place around 3:30 a.m. near Burlington Road. The Columbus Police Accident Investigation Unit is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, including whether seat belts were in use and if any of the individuals involved were under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
The deaths of Samuel and Joel Beyene, as well as Deandra Brigham, have left the community in shock and grief. Friends and family members are struggling to come to terms with the sudden and heartbreaking loss.
The community has begun to express their sorrow and support on social media. A post from LAO TV Media Ohio on Facebook shared the devastating news, stating, "The driver of the Dodge, identified by police as 19-year-old Samuel Beyene, was taken to Grant Medical Center where he was pronounced dead."
Another post emphasized the tragedy, noting, "The driver of the Dodge, identified by police as 19-year-old Samuel Beyene, was taken to Grant Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. The passenger of the Dodge, 19-year-old Joel Beyene, was also taken to Grant Medical Center where he died a day later, police say."
As the investigation into this tragic event continues, the community remains on edge, hoping for answers and healing in the wake of this profound loss.