HORRIFIC CRASH: Gary “Landyn” Jacobs’ car spun 6 terrifying times before slamming into the guardrail, leaving eyewitnesses frozen in fear. The chilling silence that followed was described as “the loudest moment” of the entire night

0
16

HORRIFIC CRASH: The Tragic End of Gary “Landyn” Jacobs’ Bright Future

In the pre-dawn hours of Thursday, August 14, 2025, a catastrophic accident shook the quiet town of Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina, claiming the life of Gary “Landyn” Jacobs, a 17-year-old high school senior just weeks from graduation. The horrific crash, witnessed by a handful of early-morning commuters, unfolded with such ferocity that it left onlookers frozen in fear. Landyn’s car spun six terrifying times before slamming into a guardrail on Canal Cove Road, and the chilling silence that followed was described by one eyewitness as “the loudest moment” of the entire night. This tragedy not only ended a young life full of promise but also left a community grappling with grief and unanswered questions.

A Promising Life Cut Short

Family mourns high school baseball star killed in early-morning car crash on the way to summer job | Daily Mail Online

Gary “Landyn” Jacobs was a beloved figure in Lake Waccamaw, known for his athletic talent, infectious humor, and dedication to his family. A senior at East Columbus High School, Landyn was a standout baseball player, earning accolades as the Most Valuable Player in an eastern tournament and contributing to the Riegelwood team’s victory in the 2021 Dixie Youth Baseball Division II Majors Dixie World Series. His uncle, Josh Simmons, described him as a “gem at second base,” a tenacious athlete whose small stature belied his fierce determination. Off the field, Landyn’s vibrant personality shone through. “He was a go-getter and a clown,” Simmons recalled, noting his nephew’s ability to bring laughter to any room.

Landyn was born on May 16, 2008, to Greg Randal Jacobs and Heather Creech Jacobs. Raised in a close-knit family alongside his sister Timber Hood and brothers Garret, Kendal, and Tyler, he dreamed of joining his father and brother in the family’s logging business. That morning, he was en route to the Green Swamp Preserve, where the Jacobs’ logging crew was working, when tragedy struck. His passion for the outdoors extended beyond work; Landyn loved riding four-wheelers, often navigating ponds with snorkel-equipped vehicles, a hobby that reflected his adventurous spirit.

The Crash That Shook a Community

The accident occurred around 4 a.m. on Canal Cove Road, a quiet stretch often used by locals. According to eyewitness accounts, Landyn’s car suddenly veered out of control, spinning six times in a dizzying blur before crashing into a guardrail with a deafening impact. “It was like the world stopped,” said one witness, a delivery driver who was among the first to call 911. “The car just kept spinning, and when it hit, the sound was unreal. Then… nothing. Just silence. It was the loudest moment of the night.” Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but the scene was grim. The vehicle was mangled, and despite their efforts, Landyn could not be saved. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Lake Waccamaw Police Department, with no official report yet confirming whether speed, road conditions, or another factor played a role.

The chilling silence that followed the crash became a haunting symbol of the loss. For those at the scene, the absence of sound was as jarring as the violence of the collision itself. “You could feel the weight of it,” another eyewitness shared. “No one moved. We were all just… frozen.” The community, already tight-knit, was left in shock as news of Landyn’s death spread.

A Community United in Grief

East Columbus High School, where Landyn was a senior, became a focal point for the community’s mourning. The school’s administration posted a heartfelt message on social media: “Gator family and community, please lift up the Jacobs family and our school in your thoughts as we mourn the loss of our beloved Landyn Jacobs.” On August 19, a candlelight vigil drew over 300 people, who gathered to honor Landyn’s memory. Candles were arranged to spell out his name, a glowing tribute to a young man who had touched so many lives. “He always kept somebody laughing,” said relative Margaret Jacobs, her voice breaking. Another family member, Brandi Jacobs, spoke of his “loving hugs” and the quiet warmth he exuded.

Candlelight Vigil for Gary 'Landyn' Jacobs, teen who died in car crash in Lake Waccamaw - YouTube

Landyn’s funeral was held on August 20 in the school auditorium, officiated by Rev. Zack Jacobs, followed by a burial at New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery in Bolton. The service was attended by hundreds, reflecting the depth of Landyn’s impact. His baseball coach, Brad Smith, remembered him as a player with a “happy outlook” who was “always a pleasure to be around.” Teachers, like retired educator Fuller Royal, recalled his good humor and even-tempered nature, qualities that made him a favorite among peers and faculty alike.

A Legacy of Love and Resilience

Landyn’s death has prompted an outpouring of support for his family. His uncle Josh emphasized the strength of their familial bond: “We are all about family. If one of us hurts, we all hurt. We’ve got each other’s back.” This sense of unity has been a cornerstone of the community’s response, with neighbors, friends, and even strangers offering condolences and assistance. The Jacobs family has vowed to keep Landyn’s memory alive, cherishing the moments they shared and the dreams he held dear.

The tragedy has also sparked broader reflection on the fragility of life. Landyn was on the cusp of a new chapter, ready to graduate and take on a larger role in the family business. His sudden loss serves as a stark reminder to hold loved ones close. “He was a gem,” Simmons said, a sentiment echoed by all who knew him. Landyn’s love for baseball, his family, and the simple joys of life—like riding four-wheelers through the mud—will remain etched in the hearts of those he left behind.

Looking Ahead

As Lake Waccamaw navigates this profound loss, the community is finding ways to honor Landyn’s legacy. His obituary, published by Peacock Funeral Home, invited friends to share memories and plant trees in his memory, a fitting tribute to a young man so connected to the land. The school and local baseball teams are exploring ways to commemorate his contributions, perhaps through a scholarship or a dedication on the field where he shone so brightly.

The chilling silence that followed Landyn’s crash will linger in the memories of those who witnessed it, but so too will the sound of his laughter, the crack of his bat, and the warmth of his presence. For Lake Waccamaw, Landyn Jacobs was more than a talented athlete or a beloved son—he was a light that burned brightly, if only for a short time. As the community mourns, they do so together, holding fast to the values Landyn embodied: family, resilience, and joy.

Sources: People.com, Peacock Funeral Home, Internewscast Journal, WECT

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here