The Mesa community is mourning the heartbreaking Jaquan death after a devastating car accident claimed the life of a beloved 17-year-old student-athlete from Red Mountain High School.
Jaquan, a senior at Red Mountain High School in Mesa, Arizona, passed away on December 13, 2025, following a deadly crash.
He was just months away from graduation, a milestone he had worked hard for and was truly excited to reach.
According to Mesa police reports, the accident happened just before 12:30 a.m. on Saturday near Southern Avenue and Dobson Road.
Investigators say a vehicle traveling westbound at high speed slammed into the back of another car that was pulling out from a private driveway.
The impact was so severe that the second vehicle burst into flames.
Responding officers acted quickly and heroically, pulling several people from the burning car to save their lives.
Three officers suffered smoke inhalation and minor injuries during the rescue efforts but were treated and released.
In total, two people died in the crash: a juvenile passenger and an adult driver, while several others were injured. Police have stated that no charges will be filed in the incident.
Jaquan was more than just a student. He was a standout basketball player with an incredible passion for the game.
To him, basketball wasn’t just a sport; it was a source of joy, discipline, and purpose.
Known as a gentle giant, his bright smile could light up any room, and his warm presence made everyone feel welcomed and loved.
He had a heart as big as his personality, loving everyone around him and earning that love in return.
At school, Jaquan was deeply respected. He had a wide circle of friends who admired his kindness, loyalty, and genuine spirit.
His absence will be felt deeply in the hallways, on the basketball court, and in the hearts of all who knew him.
A GoFundMe campaign was set up by Javon Lamb to support Jaquan’s family during this difficult time
The fundraiser aims to cover funeral and memorial expenses, immediate family needs, and other arrangements as loved ones grieve.
It shows that no amount of money can heal the pain of losing Jaquan, but donations can ease the financial burden so his family can focus on honoring his life.
The page movingly notes: “Forever 17. Forever loved. Forever remembered.”
Friends, classmates, and community members have poured out heartfelt condolences, sharing stories of Jaquan’s infectious energy and how he touched so many lives.
This sudden loss serves as a painful reminder of how fragile life can be, leaving the Red Mountain High School family and the broader Mesa area in deep sorrow.
Jaquan will be greatly missed, but his legacy of kindness and passion will live on.
