The Stillman College community is in mourning following a tragic accident that claimed the lives of student Sieas Elliott and alumni Destiny Gardner and Varick Lawrence last Friday evening. The unfortunate incident occurred in the Atlanta metro area and has left a profound impact on friends, family, and the college at large.
As reported by WBRC, the college's President, Dr. Yolanda W. Page, expressed the depth of the loss in a statement: “This is a terrible tragedy for everyone in our Stillman family. The spirit of each of these proud Stillmanites will live on with all who were greeted by their warm smiles and welcoming personality. The entire Stillman College community mourns this heartbreaking loss. We extend our sincere condolences to their families, friends, classmates, and teammates during this incredibly difficult time.” The college, according to a release, said that Gardner and Lawrence shared a young son, adding a layer of poignancy to the already heavy loss.
Elliott was a Stockbridge native who had recently completed his collegiate baseball career and was set to continue his education while serving as a student assistant baseball coach in the next academic year. WBRC highlighted his planned return, noting his involvement in Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and his leadership qualities.
Gardner, remembered for her time as the 74th Miss Stillman and her work with the UNCF National Pre-Alumni Council, had graduated with a degree in criminal justice and was working as a juvenile officer. Jean Wilson, Director of Alumni Affairs at Stillman College, told WBRC that Destiny Gardner embodied the spirit of Stillman—determined, compassionate, and always striving for excellence.
Lawrence, a Lithonia native and also a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, graduated from Stillman in 2023 and was coaching youth baseball in the Atlanta area. The same WBRC report cited Director of Athletics at Stillman College, Terrance Whittle, expressing his sorrow: "The legacy of Elliott, Gardner, and Lawrence will live on at Stillman through the relationships that they formed."
The Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice also released a statement, obtained by FOX 5 Atlanta, commemorating Gardner: "It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of our colleague and friend, Officer Destiny Gardner. She was more than just a coworker she was a source of kindness, dedication, and inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of working alongside her at the Department of Juvenile Justice." The location, date, and time of the accident are being investigated, and more details are expected as official agencies release further information.
