Whitehaven, Tennessee - While many families across the Mid-South are celebrating the holiday season, the family of 22-year-old Damarious Miller is mourning his tragic death in a car accident. The crash occurred early Friday morning at the intersection of Winchester and Millbranch roads in Whitehaven. According to the Memphis Police Department (MPD), the incident involved three vehicles, one of which was reported stolen. The police have clarified that the crash was not the result of a pursuit, but for Miller’s mother, Takisha Denton, the circumstances remain unclear, leaving her searching for answers.
Expressing her profound grief, Denton said, “Because of this right here, my son is gone.” She is struggling to piece together the events that led to her son's untimely death. Denton revealed that Miller was in the car with his cousins at the time of the crash. The devastating news was relayed to her through a phone call from her niece, who said, “We were in a wreck, I can’t find DeDe.” DeDe, a nickname for Damarious, was later identified as the victim who lost his life in the collision.
While the MPD maintains that there was no police chase involved, Denton’s niece, who was driving, described the scene differently. She claimed to have seen the vehicle that caused the crash but mentioned that there were no police sirens or lights at the time. This discrepancy has left Denton grappling with conflicting accounts and struggling to understand the truth behind what happened.
The tragedy extends beyond Miller's death. Denton shared that her niece and nephew, who were also in the car, sustained severe injuries. Her niece suffered multiple fractures, including her hip, leg, arm, and ribs, while her nephew endured a fractured rib, a broken nose, and possibly a broken arm. These physical injuries add another layer of pain for a family already overwhelmed by loss.
Reflecting on her son, Denton described Miller as “a loving, caring, singing, dancing, life of the party.” She spoke of his vibrant personality and the joy he brought to those around him. “He was my baby for a long time. I’m trying to wrap my head around this, looking at my phone hoping he’ll walk through the door,” she said, her voice heavy with grief. Despite the immense pain, Denton is trying to remain strong for her family.
As they navigate this heartbreaking time, the family continues to seek clarity and justice. Denton’s questions about the events leading up to the crash remain unanswered, leaving her in a state of limbo as she mourns her son and supports her injured relatives.
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, especially during a season meant for joy and togetherness. It also highlights the importance of thorough investigations and clear communication from law enforcement to provide families with the closure they desperately need.
For now, the Denton family and others affected by this loss are left to grieve, holding on to the cherished memories of Miller’s life while hoping for answers and healing in the days to come.
