At a Glance
- A wrong-way Ford pickup collided with a Chevrolet Tahoe on Route 99 North, killing three people.
- The victims included two Bryant University juniors, Jaylin Rainford and Chiemelie Okonkwo.
- The crash occurred at 12:27 a.m. on January 25, 2026 and both vehicles caught fire.
- Why it matters: The tragedy has shocked the Rhode Island community and prompted a statewide investigation into road safety.
A devastating wrong-way crash on Sunday night in Rhode Island left three people dead, including two students from Bryant University. The collision, involving a Ford pickup and a Chevrolet Tahoe on Route 99 North, occurred at 12:27 a.m. on January 25, 2026 and both vehicles erupted into flames.
Crash Details
The Rhode Island State Police received 911 calls at 12:27 a.m. local time reporting a vehicle traveling south on Route 99 North. Emergency responders soon learned that the vehicle was a Ford pickup driven by Denis Aguilar Campos, 41, of Chelsea, Mass. As Campos approached Route 116, his pickup struck a north-bound Chevrolet Tahoe in a high-speed lane.
Both vehicles were severely damaged and caught fire following the impact. The crash was first reported on Route 146 North in Lincoln, where the same pickup was involved.
Timeline of Events
| Date & Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 12:27 a.m. | 911 call about southbound vehicle on Route 99 North |
| Shortly after | Emergency call reports crash on Route 146 North |
| 12:30 a.m. | Firefighters arrive; both vehicles on fire |
| 12:35 a.m. | Victims pronounced dead at scene |
Victims
| Name | Age | Affiliation |
|---|---|---|
| Jaylin Rainford | 20 | Bryant University junior |
| Chiemelie Okonkwo | 20 | Bryant University junior |
| Denis Aguilar Campos | 41 | Driver |
Rainford was driving the Tahoe, while Okonkwo was a passenger. Both students were from Massachusetts and Georgia, respectively. Campos was identified as the driver of the pickup.
Response and Reactions
Bryant University issued a statement the morning after the crash. The university’s social media post read:
> “Our hearts are heavy as we grieve the tragic loss of two Bryant University students, Jaylin Rainford and Chiemelie Okonkwo, both juniors and beloved members of the Bryant community.”
The university added that all classes were canceled and administrative offices closed on Monday, January 26, to allow students and staff to mourn.
The athletics department also expressed its sorrow:
> “Jaylin…is remembered as a talented athlete, a leader, and a young man who brought joy to those around him. Our thoughts are with their family, friends, teammates, and everyone who knew them during this difficult time.”
The university emphasized the importance of compassion and support for the community.
Investigation Status
The Rhode Island State Police are continuing to investigate the crash. The police did not immediately respond to a request for comment from News Of Los Angeles on January 26.
The investigation will focus on determining the cause of the wrong-way driving and whether any traffic laws were violated.
Community Impact
The tragedy has had a profound effect on the local community. The sudden loss of two young lives has prompted discussions about road safety and the dangers of reckless driving. Local officials have called for increased enforcement of traffic laws and better public awareness campaigns.
Bryant University has announced plans to establish a scholarship fund in memory of the students, honoring their legacy and commitment to the community.
Key Takeaways
- A wrong-way collision on Route 99 North resulted in the deaths of three individuals.
- Two of the victims were Bryant University juniors, Jaylin Rainford and Chiemelie Okonkwo.
- The crash occurred at 12:27 a.m. on January 25, 2026 and both vehicles caught fire.
- The investigation is ongoing, with police working to determine the cause.
- The incident has prompted a community-wide response, including class cancellations and memorials.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the tragic consequences that can arise from a single moment of reckless driving.
