Who were Raylon Lee and Rio Smith?
Raylon Lee and Rio Smith were a father and son who lost their lives in a horrific car accident on April 11, 2023, in Memphis, Tennessee. Raylon Lee was a 27-year-old American national who was engaged to Asia McDaniels-Perkins, the mother of his two children, Rio and Europe. Rio Smith was their one-year-old son who was born on March 5, 2022. The family was well-loved by their relatives, friends, and neighbors, who described them as happy, caring, and devoted to each other.
What happened on the day of the accident?
On the fateful day of the accident, Raylon Lee was driving a Hyundai Kona with his fiancee and their two kids as passengers. They were heading to a family gathering when they reached the intersection of Shelby Drive and Millbranch Road in Memphis. According to witnesses, Raylon attempted to make a left turn, but collided with a Chevy Camaro that was speeding on the opposite lane. The impact of the crash was so severe that it caused the Hyundai Kona to flip over and catch fire. The Chevy Camaro also spun out of control and hit a utility pole.
What were the consequences of the accident?
The accident resulted in the tragic deaths of Raylon Lee, Rio Smith, and Asia McDaniels-Perkins, who were pronounced dead at the scene. The only survivor of the crash was their three-year-old daughter, Europe, who was critically injured and rushed to the hospital. She suffered from a broken pelvis, a broken femur, a lacerated liver, and a lacerated spleen, and required multiple surgeries and physical therapy. The driver of the Chevy Camaro was also injured and taken to the hospital, but his condition was not life-threatening. The cause of the accident is still under investigation, but family members suspect that reckless driving may have been a factor. They are hoping that the authorities will bring justice to their loved ones and hold the responsible party accountable.
How did the community react to the accident?
The news of the accident shocked and saddened the community, who expressed their condolences and support to the bereaved family. A GoFundMe campaign was launched by Raylon’s brother, Ramone Smith, to help cover the funeral expenses and the medical bills of Europe. The campaign raised more than $15,000, surpassing the initial goal of $14,877. Many people also offered prayers and words of encouragement to the family, especially to Europe, who faced a long and difficult recovery. A candlelight vigil was held at the site of the accident, where people paid tribute to the young family and remembered their lives.
What is the legacy of Raylon Lee and Rio Smith?
Raylon Lee and Rio Smith may be gone, but they will never be forgotten. They left behind a legacy of love, joy, and faith that will live on in the hearts of those who knew them. They also left behind a precious daughter, Europe, who will carry on their memory and spirit. She is a miracle child who survived the accident and showed remarkable resilience and strength. She is the hope and the future of the family, who will always cherish and protect her. Raylon Lee and Rio Smith were a father and son who died too soon, but they will always be remembered as a family who lived and loved.