Washington Adventist University Remembers Jeremy Lopez and Michelle Reyes

Statement from Washington Adventist University on September 13.

Following our statement on September 11, 2026, regarding the tragic loss of two Washington Adventist University students in a motor vehicle accident near Bridgeville, Delaware, we are now able to identify our students as Jeremy Lopez and Michelle Reyes.

As our University community continues to process this heartbreaking loss, we want to remember Jeremy and Michelle not simply for the tragedy that took them from us, but for the lives they lived, the friendships they formed and the contributions they made to the Washington Adventist University family.

Jeremy Lopez was a sophomore pursuing a degree in religion and theology. A gifted singer, Jeremy shared his love of music as a member of the University's ProMusica Choir and as a member of a quartet. Those who knew Jeremy describe him as vivacious and full of joy, someone who loved to make people smile and laugh. His warmth, energy and joyful spirit touched many throughout the WAU community.

Michelle Reyes was a senior pursuing a degree in psychology and behavioral science. A dedicated student-athlete, Michelle was a member of the Washington Adventist University cross country team. She was a valued member of our campus community whose loss is being deeply felt by her classmates, teammates, coaches, professors and friends.

Jeremy and Michelle represented different parts of the WAU experience, faith, music, academics, athletics, friendship and community, but both were united by the promise and potential that we see in each of our students.

Their passing has left an immeasurable void in our University family.

We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to the Lopez and Reyes families and to everyone who knew and loved Jeremy and Michelle. We ask that the privacy of their families continue to be respected as they grieve.

Counseling, pastoral care and other support resources continue to be available to WAU students, faculty and staff. We encourage members of our community to reach out for support and to care for one another in the days ahead.

The accident remains under investigation by the Delaware State Police, and the University will defer questions concerning the circumstances of the accident to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.

Our focus remains on remembering Jeremy and Michelle, supporting their families and caring for our students and University community.

We ask our alumni, friends, partners and broader community to continue to keep the Lopez and Reyes families, their friends and the entire WAU community in prayer.

Information regarding opportunities for the WAU family and the wider community to gather in remembrance, tribute and prayer will be shared as details become available.

We mourn their loss. We celebrate their lives. And we will remember Jeremy and Michelle together.