Tragic ATV Crash: Substitute Teacher and Two Others Arrested in Connection with Underage Drinking
Introduction
On a somber day in August 2023, the Transylvania County community was devastated by the news of a fatal ATV crash that claimed the lives of two teenage boys. The tragic event has led to the arrest of three individuals, including a former substitute teacher at the victims’ school, in connection with providing alcohol to the underage victims.
The Crash
On August 25, 2023, Layne Jones and Jayden Reynald, both students and football players at Rosman High School, were operating a 2015 Polaris Sportsman ATV when they navigated a curve and ran off the road, colliding with a tree. The initial investigation by state highway patrol cited excessive speed as the primary cause of the accident. However, further investigation revealed the presence of alcohol as a contributing factor.
The Victims
Layne and Jayden were beloved members of the Rosman High School community. They were both described as exceptional students and talented athletes who were actively involved in school activities and extracurriculars. Their deaths have left an immeasurable void in the hearts of their families, friends, and the entire community.
The Substitute Teacher
Ashley Marie Darity, 34, a resident of Rosman, was arrested on February 13, 2023, on two counts of involuntary manslaughter in connection with the deaths of Layne and Jayden. Investigators allege that Darity, who was previously employed as a substitute teacher in the Transylvania County Schools District, provided alcohol to the teenage victims on the night of the crash.
The Other Arrests
In addition to Darity, two other individuals, Brandon Kaine Rathbone, 47, and Patricia Faye Whitehead, 33, both from Balsam Grove, were arrested in connection with the investigation. Rathbone and Whitehead are charged with aiding and abetting the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages to a person under 21.
The Investigation
An arrest warrant for Rathbone alleges that he and Whitehead hosted an underage house party where they allegedly provided a 15-year-old with a malt beverage and encouraged the juvenile to perform a keg stand, a dangerous drinking game. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and authorities have not yet released further details about the role of Rathbone and Whitehead.
The Community’s Response
The tragic crash has sent shockwaves through the Transylvania County community. In a statement, Superintendent Lisa Fletcher expressed the district’s profound grief and offered condolences to the victims’ families and loved ones. Rosman High School held an "orange out" at a home football game to show unity and support for the grieving community.
The Legal Proceedings
Darity’s bail was set at $20,000, while Rathbone and Whitehead’s bail was set at $500 each. Attorneys for Darity have stated that they welcome the opportunity to tell the full story in court. The case is scheduled for a hearing on March 13, 2023.
Conclusion
The ATV crash that claimed the lives of Layne Jones and Jayden Reynald has left a lasting scar on the Transylvania County community. The arrests of three individuals, including a former substitute teacher, have raised serious questions about the availability and consumption of alcohol among underage individuals. As the investigation continues and the legal proceedings unfold, the community grapples with the pain of loss and seeks to find answers and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
