Bryant University students killed by wrong-way driver in fiery crash remembered

The Rhode Island State Police are investigating a fatal crash that killed three people early Sunday morning as the deceased are being remembered.

At just before 12:30 a.m., State Police Headquarters received 911 calls reporting a vehicle traveling southbound on Route 99 North. Shortly thereafter, additional 911 calls were received for a crash involving the same vehicle on 146 North in Lincoln. Investigators have determined that a Ford pickup truck, operated by Denis Aguilar Campos, age 41, of Chelsea, Massachusetts, was traveling southbound in the high-speed lane of Route 146 North. As Campos approached Route 116, his vehicle struck a Chevrolet Tahoe, traveling north in the high-speed lane, head-on. Both vehicles were engulfed in flames.

Troopers from State Police Headquarters and the Lincoln Woods Barracks, as well as members of the Lincoln Police Department and Lincoln and Cumberland Fire Departments responded to the scene.

The Tahoe was operated by Jaylin Rainford, age 20, of Randolph, Massachusetts. Campos, Rainford, and a passenger in the Tahoe, identified as Chiemelie “David” Okonkwo, age 20, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, were all pronounced dead at the scene. There were no other occupants in either vehicle.

Bryant University issued the following statement on Sunday evening.

“Our hearts are heavy as we grieve the tragic loss of two Bryant University students, Jaylin Rainford and David Okonkwo, both juniors and beloved members of the Bryant community.

“Jaylin and David passed away this morning following a car accident involving a wrong-way driver, and this heartbreaking loss has deeply affected our campus. As we mourn, and with a significant winter storm impacting our region, all classes are canceled and administrative offices are closed on Monday, January 26, so we can prioritize care and support for one another.

“Counseling Services, Campus Ministry, and DPS remain available to support our community during this difficult time.

“We hold Jaylin and David, and all who loved them, close in our thoughts and hearts, and we remain committed to compassion, connection, and care as we support one another through this tragedy.”

Those who knew the pair described them as respectful, kind, and friendly who were involved on campus.

Jaylin, a member of the Bryant track and field program, is remembered by Bryant Athletics as “a talented athlete, a leader, and a young man who brought joy to those around him.”