WASHINGTON, D.C. – Howard University is mourning the loss of an 18-year-old student, Mohammad Samura, who tragically died after being hit by a car on campus last week. The university’s student newspaper reported that a faculty member was at the wheel during the unfortunate incident.
Samura, a Fredericksburg, Virginia native, was fatally struck near the intersection of Fairmont and 6th streets NW on April 11. He succumbed to his injuries on Sunday. Metropolitan Police Department disclosed that a blue Audi sedan moving at high speed hit a parked car, veered onto the curb and fatally hit Samura. Authorities have yet to provide the driver’s identity or indicate whether criminal charges will be pursued.
Many students of Howard University expressed deep sorrow over the accident that claimed the life of their peer. During a heartfelt memorial service on campus, hundreds gathered to commemorate Samura, laying flowers by a flagpole and mourning collectively.
The incident has not only struck sorrow within the student community but also exposed the vulnerability of their safe campus environment. “It happened so close, like on this campus– and that part was just really hard to grasp for me,” shared Alicia Hooks, another fellow student.
Samura’s academic and extracurricular accomplishments shed light on his promising future tragically cut short. He was a computer information systems major, exceptional enough to make the School of Business’ dean’s list, and showcased remarkable skills as part of the University’s award-winning ESports Team.
University President Ben Vinson III expressed deep condolences to his family, friends, classmates, and instructors, urging them to find comfort in their shared cherished memories of Samura.
Howard University ensured that counseling services would be made available to students and staff to help cope with the loss.