LUNENBURG COUNTY, Va. — An 18-year-old Central High School graduate from Lunenburg County was killed in a single-vehicle crash in Campbell County on Saturday, the day of his graduation.
Jemiere C. Hite, a member of the Central High School Class of 2025, graduated earlier that day during the school’s commencement ceremony. Later that afternoon, just before 4:45 p.m., Virginia State Police responded to a crash on Gladys Road in Campbell County involving a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu.
According to state police reports, the vehicle was traveling eastbound when it veered off the right side of the road, descended an embankment, and struck a tree. Four people were inside the car at the time, including Hite, two other passengers, and the driver, 23-year-old John E. Witcher, Jr., of the Lynch Station area.
All occupants sustained serious injuries. Hite was transported to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries.
Witcher has been charged with reckless driving. Investigators noted that none of the passengers, including the driver, were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. The incident remains under investigation.
In a statement, Sharon Stanislas, superintendent of Lunenburg County Public Schools, expressed deep sorrow over Hite’s death:
“It is with deep sorrow that we acknowledge the passing of Jemeire C. Hite, a cherished member of the Central High School Class of 2025. Jemeire graduated on May 24, full of promise and pride. His loss is felt deeply across our school community.”
Stanislas also extended condolences to Hite’s family and friends, assuring that counselors are available to support students and staff during this difficult time.
No further details have been released.
