Local News
Victims killed in Marion County crash identified
Authorities in Marion County are investigating a fatal single-vehicle crash that occurred early Wednesday morning, leaving two young people dead and another seriously injured.
According to Kevin Williams, deputies were initially dispatched around 2:00 a.m. to a report of teenagers gathering and drinking at a location locally known as the “gravel pit” along County Road 36, also referred to as Jasper Hill.
While responding to the call, deputies observed a silver Toyota 4Runner traveling at a high rate of speed through the area.
Skylar Handley, Chief of the Brilliant Police Department, stated that deputies activated their emergency lights but did not initiate a pursuit. Shortly afterward, officers lost sight of the vehicle while continuing to patrol the area.
A short time later, deputies located the same vehicle involved in a single-vehicle crash nearby.
Authorities confirmed that three occupants were inside the SUV at the time of the crash, and all were ejected upon impact.
Two individuals, identified as 17-year-old Braden Canterberry, a senior at Brilliant High School, and 20-year-old Braxton Canterberry, were pronounced dead at the scene.
An 18-year-old occupant sustained critical injuries and was airlifted to UAB Hospital for emergency treatment.
The circumstances leading to the crash remain under investigation.
Officials and community members have described the loss as deeply personal. Chief Handley noted that all three individuals were known within the community and spoke of the profound impact on local families and schools.
In a statement, Brilliant Schools expressed sorrow over the tragedy, extending condolences to the families, friends, classmates, and educators affected by the loss.
School officials announced that classes will remain in session to provide a supportive environment, with counselors and additional resources available to assist students and staff during the grieving process.
Friends and family members gathered at the crash site later in the day to honor the victims and support one another as the community continues to process the devastating incident.
Authorities have not released further details as the investigation remains ongoing.
Three young lives were tragically lost in a fiery head-on collision early Wednesday morning, November 4, 2026, on Highway 158 near Happy Hill Road in Stokesdale, Guilford County, North Carolina.
Authorities have identified the victims as 16-year-old Baisley, 22-year-old Saige Richardson, and 27-year-old Tyler Robinson. Their deaths have left three families grieving an unimaginable loss and have deeply saddened those who knew and loved them.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred shortly after 2 a.m. when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collided head-on along Highway 158.
The force of the impact caused both vehicles to catch fire. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but all three individuals involved in the collision were pronounced dead at the location.
The victims were identified as Baisley, Saige Richardson, and Tyler Robinson. They were 16, 22, and 27 years old, respectively. Each had a life of their own, with relationships, hopes, and plans for the future. Their sudden deaths have left loved ones facing a devastating reality.
Following the collision, Highway 158 was closed for several hours as emergency crews and investigators worked at the scene. The roadway reopened at approximately 5:35 a.m.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. The cause of the collision has not yet been determined, and officials have not released further details about what may have led to the two vehicles striking each other.
The deaths of Baisley, Saige Richardson, and Tyler Robinson are a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly lives can change. At just 16, 22, and 27, all three had so much life ahead of them. Their loss will be felt most deeply by their families, friends, and everyone whose lives they touched.
For their loved ones, the days ahead will bring the difficult task of navigating grief while holding on to the memories of those they have lost. Three families are now left with an absence that words cannot fully describe.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with the families and friends of Baisley, Saige Richardson, and Tyler Robinson. May they find strength, comfort, and support during this painful time.
May Baisley, Saige Richardson, and Tyler Robinson rest in eternal peace.