On August 17, 2025, the Michigan community mourned the loss of 19-year-old Exzonia Smetana, a lively Grand Valley State University volleyball player, who tragically died in a car accident.
The accident, which occurred in Kalamazoo County’s Oshtemo Township, also took the life of a 17-year-old passenger from Kalamazoo.
The devastating incident has left family, friends, and the community mourning the loss of a young woman described as radiant, kind-hearted, and unapologetically herself.
According to the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched at 3:20 a.m. to the intersection of Stadium Drive and South 9th Street, where they found a single vehicle engulfed in flames.
The car, driven by Exzonia, had lost control near the intersection, veered off the roadway, and collided with a traffic signal pole.
The impact caused the vehicle to catch fire, resulting in the deaths of both Exzonia and her passenger.
Authorities believe speed may have been a factor in the crash, though the investigation is ongoing to determine whether drugs or alcohol were involved.
The Western Michigan University Police Department, Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety, Oshtemo Township Fire Department, and Life EMS assisted at the scene.
Exzonia Smetana was a Shining Star in Every Sense of the Word
A sophomore at Grand Valley State University since 2024, she was pursuing her dreams while excelling as a middle hitter and right-side hitter for the university’s volleyball team.
Before college, Exzonia attended Paw Paw High School, where she wore the #4 jersey and made a lasting impact on the varsity volleyball team. She loved the sport and had energizing enthusiasm on the court.
Beyond athletics, Exzonia was known for her vibrant personality and ability to light up any room.
Her family described her as someone who could turn any dull moment into something fun, always staying true to her goofy, outgoing self.
She loved sports, her family, and her friends, and her ability to make friends anywhere she went was evidence of her warm and welcoming nature.
Exzonia’s family was an important part of her life, and the loss of her mother, Tanya Carr, in August 2024, was a huge heartbreak.
Tanya was Exzonia’s biggest supporter, rarely missing a game and cheering her daughter on through every milestone, including her high school graduation in May 2024.
To honor her mother, Exzonia got a tattoo on her left hand that read, “Dear Mom, I’ll see you in every sunset,” a reminder of their unbreakable bond.
The Love and Sadness Expressed by those who knew Exzonia show how deeply she affected her Community
Her stepmother, Stephanie Ann Franklin, shared an emotional tribute that caught the depth of their connection:
“Exzonia.. I don’t even know where to begin. Watching you grow into a beautiful young lady over the last 6 years has been one of the biggest blessings in my life. It’s not fair that the journey is over now. You had so much to still do. You had so much life to still live… I want you to call me and tell me about all of the boys you like this year. I want you to call me and tell me all of your gossip… I love you so much Exzonia. I don’t know how to comprehend that I have to live life without you. Fly high my beautiful baby.”
Via Facebook
Exzonia’s former coach, Christina Rishel Duchene, also shared a moving tribute, highlighting her role as more than just a coach but a mentor and friend:
“Exzonia was a radiant, energetic, kind-hearted, and vibrant athlete who lit up the volleyball court. I feel deeply honored to have been her coach and shared two incredible years with her on Varsity Volleyball… To me, Exzonia was more than just a player – she became a cherished part of my life, leaving an indelible mark that I’ll always treasure. I’m asking everyone to pray and send love. Though she may be gone too soon, her spirit will live on.”
Via Facebook
Arianna Hankins and others in the community shared fond childhood memories.
“I will always remember and cherish the good times we had together growing up with our big sissys. Fly high sweetgirl.”
Via Facebook
Aaron DiPrima, who met Exzonia at Strength Beyond Fitness, noted her maturity and grace, calling her an “old soul” whose presence left a lasting impression.
The crash site at Stadium Drive and South 9th Street has become a place of remembrance, with a growing memorial of flowers and kind messages left by loved ones.
A GoFundMe has been established to support a celebration of life for Exzonia, with a goal of raising $18,000 to honor her memory in a way that reflects her vibrant spirit.
Exzonia Smetana’s life was cut tragically short, but her legacy lasts through the countless lives she touched.
Her love for volleyball, her contagious laughter, and her authenticity will forever be remembered by her family, friends, teammates, and coaches.
The Michigan community grieves this devastating loss. They hold tight to the memories of a young woman who lived life to the fullest and inspired those around her to do the same.
