FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Fayetteville community is heartbroken following the tragic passing of 22-year-old Trenton Wayne Thompson, who lost his life in a devastating traffic accident on Wednesday evening, October 29, 2025, at the intersection of Gillespie Street and Southern Avenue.
According to the Fayetteville Police Department (FPD), officers responded around 5:51 p.m. to reports of a serious crash involving a motorcycle and two SUVs. When emergency personnel arrived, they discovered that the motorcyclist had sustained critical injuries in the collision.
Investigators determined that Trenton was operating a black 2014 Yamaha motorcycle, traveling south on Gillespie Street, when a gray 2015 Chevrolet Equinox, driven by 43-year-old Hector Elias-Burgos of Fayetteville, attempted to make a left turn onto Southern Avenue. The vehicles collided, causing a powerful impact that spun the Equinox into a red 2005 GMC Envoy stopped at the intersection. The Envoy was being operated by 65-year-old Larry Wayne Barber, who was waiting to make a left turn at the time.
Emergency Medical Services immediately transported Trenton Thompson to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, where doctors and nurses worked tirelessly to save his life. Sadly, despite all efforts, Trenton succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. His family was notified soon after, and the community has since come together in grief and remembrance.
The driver of the Chevrolet Equinox, Hector Elias-Burgos, sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene. His passenger, 35-year-old Edwin Colon, also of Fayetteville, suffered minor injuries and was transported to the hospital for evaluation. The driver of the GMC Envoy, Larry Barber, was uninjured.
All drivers remained on scene and cooperated fully with law enforcement. The Fayetteville Police Department’s Traffic Unit continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, including factors such as speed, visibility, and roadway conditions. Officials have confirmed that this remains an active investigation, and updates will be provided as new information emerges.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about the collision to contact Detective J. Deal at 910-584-3692. Anonymous tips can also be shared through Fayetteville / Cumberland County Crime Stoppers by calling (910) 483-TIPS (8477), visiting fay-nccrimestoppers.org, or using the free “P3 Tips” app on Apple or Android devices.
News of Trenton’s passing has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Friends describe him as a bright, humble, and hardworking young man who loved motorcycles and lived his life with passion and joy. His infectious smile, gentle nature, and kind spirit touched everyone he met. Trenton’s family remembers him as a loving son, brother, and friend — someone whose presence made life warmer and whose absence will be deeply felt forever.
This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of how precious and fragile life can be. As Fayetteville mourns the loss of one of its own, the community rallies around the Thompson family, offering love, prayers, and strength during this difficult time.
Rest in Peace, Trenton Wayne Thompson.
Your journey on this earth ended far too soon, but your memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who love you.
Forever missed. Never forgotten.
