Atlanta, Georgia — A 21-year-old Clark Atlanta University student has died following a collision involving a driver who allegedly was traveling at 94 mph in a 35 mph zone, according to reports citing local authorities.
Morgan Gamble died after the crash at the intersection of Hank Aaron Drive and Glenn Street in Atlanta at approximately 11:15 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13. The other driver, identified as Nikolai Dunford, was later arrested and faces multiple charges, including first-degree vehicular homicide.
The fatal collision has prompted an outpouring of grief from Gamble’s university community, while tributes have also emerged from the television production where the student recently worked.
What Happened in the Fatal Atlanta Crash?
According to Atlanta Police, the collision occurred late Tuesday night at the intersection of Hank Aaron Drive and Glenn Street.
Both drivers were hospitalized following the crash. Gamble was subsequently pronounced dead, authorities said, as reported by the outlet.
The circumstances surrounding the collision remain part of the investigation. However, a report by WSFA stated that Dunford allegedly was driving a Lexus at 94 mph in a posted 35 mph zone.
If confirmed, the reported speed would be nearly three times the posted limit. Investigators will determine the relevant evidence and circumstances as the criminal case proceeds.
Driver Arrested on Vehicular Homicide Charges
Dunford was arrested following the crash and faces charges of reckless driving, speeding and first-degree vehicular homicide, according to inmate records reviewed by PEOPLE.
He is being held at the Fulton County Jail.
The charges reflect the seriousness of the allegations surrounding the collision, but the accusations have not been established as proven facts in court. Further legal proceedings will determine how the case moves forward.
Authorities have not provided additional details about the sequence of events leading to the crash in the information available from the initial reports.
Clark Atlanta University Mourns Morgan Gamble
Clark Atlanta University issued a statement on social media on Wednesday, October 14, acknowledging Gamble’s death and expressing condolences to those affected by the loss.
“It is with profound sadness that Clark Atlanta University acknowledges the passing of Morgan Gamble, a member of our Panther family,” the statement began.
“The loss of a member of our University community is deeply felt, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to Morgan’s family, friends, classmates and all who knew and loved Morgan.”
The university also asked the community to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult period.
“Out of respect for the family and their privacy during this difficult time, the University will refrain from sharing additional details,” the statement added. “We ask the CAU community to join us in honoring the family’s privacy as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”
The university said it is offering counseling services to students mourning Gamble’s death.
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Student Had Worked on Netflix’s ‘A Different World’ Reboot
Gamble was studying television, film and radio at Clark Atlanta University and was a senior at the institution.
The student had also recently worked on the set of Netflix’s reboot of A Different World, connecting Gamble’s academic interests with professional television production experience.
Felicia Pride, the reboot’s showrunner, shared a tribute to Gamble on social media following the death.
Pride, 47, posted a photograph of Gamble wearing a costume while working as an extra on the show. Her tribute highlighted the connection between the student and the production, as colleagues and members of the entertainment community mourned the loss.
Gamble’s involvement in the project adds another dimension to the loss felt by those who knew the student through university life and television work.
Investigation and Community Support Continue
The fatal collision has left Gamble’s family, classmates and university community facing a difficult loss. Clark Atlanta University’s decision to provide counseling services offers students an opportunity to seek support while grieving.
The criminal case against Dunford is expected to proceed through the legal system, where the allegations and evidence will be examined.
For now, the case remains focused on the circumstances of the collision, the reported speed of the Lexus and the charges filed following Gamble’s death.
What message would you share with Clark Atlanta University students and Morgan Gamble’s loved ones during this difficult time? Share your thoughts and condolences in the comments below.
