A tragic car accident early on the morning of 4 May claimed the life of Homewood-Flossmoor High School senior Tom Mya Lyons,18, shortly after attending her senior prom.
Superintendent Dr. Scott Wakeley and Principal Dr. Clinton Alexander shared the heartbreaking news with the school community.
Tom Mya was recently recognized as one of the school’s Decision Day Raffle winners. She and fellow seniors Jabari Brown, Brooklyn Inovskis, Nora Vargo, and Anne Bruner were celebrated as soon-to-be graduates and honored with alumni gear.
The moment was part of the school’s tradition, proudly marked by the phrase, “Once a Viking, Always a Viking” during its sports program.
Tom Mya Lyons was remembered as a student and a valued part of the HF community and Viking family.
Family And Friends Mourn The Loss Of Tom Mya Lyons
With her mother’s permission, Homewood-Flossmoor High School shared the heartbreaking news of Tom Mya Lyons’ passing with the school community to ensure everyone is informed and aware of the support resources available to students and staff.
The message reminded everyone that grief affects people differently, and it’s important to offer one another kindness, patience, and understanding during this difficult time.
“Feeling sad is a normal response to any loss. Some of us may not have known her very well and may not be as affected, while others may experience a great deal of sadness. Her death may also bring about feelings in those who have lost loved ones. These feelings of sadness, confusion, even possibly anger may come in waves now and moving forward.”
The School Community
Many expressed shock and grief, offering condolences to Tom Mya’s family, friends, classmates, and teachers.
Tom Mya’s mother, Tanequa L. Chatman, shared a heartfelt moment live on Facebook, capturing her daughter stepping out of the car, dressed beautifully and excitedly, as she got ready for prom.
What was meant to be a night of celebration quickly became a heartbreaking loss, leaving family, friends, and the community in mourning.
Tom Mya’s friend, Lukesha Tate, shared her heartbreak, saying the loss still feels unreal.
She had planned to call Tom Mya’s mother to hear about how the prom went, but instead was faced with the devastating truth that Tom Mya is no longer with us.
What had been a joyful celebration quickly turned into deep sorrow.
She asked for prayers and support for Tom Mya’s parents, Tanequa L. Chatman and Tom Lyons, the entire family, and everyone affected by the loss.
I still think it’s a dream .. Im about to wake up make my call to her mother to see how she enjoyed prom..
Lukesha Tate
but it’s not a dream Tommya Lyons is no longer with us , just as quick as we was celebrating . It was just that quick GOD said differently.. I’m asking that everyone please keep Tanequa L Chatman Cjmuzic Parker Tom Lyons the entire family and all of us in your prayers . I Can’t express how painful this is !! Tom’mya will be missed…
At the same time, one of the witnesses, Keyy Macc, expressed her deep regret for what happened and offered her heartfelt condolences to Tom Mya’s family.
She recalled the terrifying moment of witnessing the accident from behind while merging onto the highway.
She said that she and her daughter could have also been involved if she hadn’t sped up in time. As soon as it happened, she immediately called the police.
I am so sorry this happened . Sending my condolences to the family 🙏🏽🙏🏽🥹🥹 I literally was merging on the highway and watched the accident from behind . If I didn’t speed up in time could have been me and my daughter … I immediately called the police
Keyy Mac
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Her mother, Tanequa L. Chatman is the owner and Director of Lambs of Joy Daycare LLC, providing a nurturing environment for early childhood education.
- Tom Mya’s father is the owner and CEO at Cj’s Muzic Company’ The Spot LLC.
- The accident happened at approximately 4:30 a.m. on the Sibley Boulevard ramp leading to northbound I-94.
