Man and Woman in Their 20s Killed in Traffic Accident on Weymouth Rhymer Highway, St. Thomas

ST. THOMAS — A devastating car accident early Monday morning on Weymouth Rhymer Highway claimed the lives of both the driver and passenger. According to the V.I. Police Department, the incident occurred at approximately 12:52 a.m. between New Herrnhut Road and Donoe Road. The vehicle, a silver Acura TSX, was being driven eastward by 28-year-old Vernon Ferris when he reportedly lost control. The car subsequently climbed the embankment off the shoulder of the eastbound lane and struck a tree on its right side. Both Ferris and his passenger, 29-year-old Tiniesha Smith, sustained fatal injuries from the impact, and authorities have notified next of kin. The VIPD is investigating the cause of the accident.