Portsmouth, Virginia – Two people were killed in a late-night multi-vehicle crash in Portsmouth, and authorities have now charged a man in connection with the deadly incident. The collision occurred at a busy city intersection and remains under investigation by the Portsmouth Police Department.
Police confirmed that the crash claimed the lives of Ny Asia Hill, 23, and Deandre Lilly, 24, who were pronounced dead at the scene.
Incident Overview
The fatal crash happened around 10:54 p.m. on February 12 at the intersection of High Street and Elm Avenue in Portsmouth. According to investigators, three vehicles were involved in the collision.
Authorities said a vehicle traveling westbound on High Street allegedly failed to obey a traffic signal. The vehicle then struck another car that was lawfully in the intersection, pushing it into a stationary pickup truck.
The impact caused catastrophic damage to the struck vehicle, leading to the deaths of its two occupants.
Victims Identified
Police identified the victims as:
- Ny Asia Hill, 23
- Deandre Lilly, 24
Both were inside the vehicle that was hit and pushed into the pickup truck. Emergency responders pronounced them dead at the scene.
The sudden loss has deeply impacted the local community, particularly those who knew the young victims.
Driver Charged in Connection With Crash
The driver of the vehicle accused of causing the crash was identified as Christopher M. Gaskin, 33. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment following the collision.
On February 19, Portsmouth police announced that Gaskin had been formally charged in connection with the incident.
He now faces multiple charges, including:
- 2 counts of aggravated involuntary manslaughter
- Driving under the influence
- Reckless driving – failure to obey traffic signal
- Improper use of safety belt
- No vehicle registration
- Failure to display license plates
The severity of the charges reflects the seriousness of the crash and the loss of life involved.
Timeline of Events
- February 12, 10:54 p.m. – Officers respond to reports of a crash at High Street and Elm Avenue.
- Three vehicles confirmed involved.
- Two victims pronounced dead at the scene.
- Gaskin transported to hospital.
- February 19 – Charges officially filed against Gaskin.
The Portsmouth Police Department’s Strategic Traffic Unit continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the crash.
Police Statement and Ongoing Investigation
The Portsmouth Police Department confirmed that the case remains active as investigators work to determine all contributing factors, including speed, impairment, and traffic signal timing.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Portsmouth Police Investigations Bureau at 757-393-8536. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP or via the P3 Tips app.
The Dangers of Impaired and Reckless Driving
Fatal crashes involving alleged impaired driving continue to be a serious public safety concern nationwide. Driving under the influence significantly reduces reaction time, impairs judgment, and increases the likelihood of failing to obey traffic signals.
Running red lights remains one of the leading causes of deadly intersection crashes. According to national traffic safety data, intersection-related fatalities account for a substantial portion of annual roadway deaths.
Simple precautions such as obeying traffic signals, avoiding alcohol before driving, wearing seat belts, and ensuring proper vehicle registration and compliance can prevent tragedies like this.
Community Safety Awareness
Authorities encourage drivers to:
- Always obey traffic signals and posted speed limits
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Wear seat belts properly
- Ensure vehicles are legally registered and compliant
Residents are also urged to report dangerous driving behaviors to local law enforcement when safe to do so.
Conclusion
The tragic crash at High Street and Elm Avenue has left two families grieving and a community searching for answers. With charges now filed against Christopher M. Gaskin, 33, the legal process will move forward as investigators continue reviewing evidence.
As the case develops, authorities remain focused on accountability and roadway safety to prevent future tragedies.
If you have any information related to this case, contact Portsmouth police. Share your experiences in the comments below.
