Los Angeles Rams defensive lineman Kobie Turner is grappling with the death of his close friend, Thomas Stevao, who was killed in a car crash in Maryland over the weekend. Turner and his wife, Alissa, shared their grief on social media Tuesday, describing their shock and sadness.
"It still doesn't feel real," Kobie Turner wrote on his Instagram Stories, sharing photos of Stevao. "I miss you brother."
Alissa Turner, who knew Stevao from high school, also posted a tribute, stating, "I am so devastated. I'll miss you forever."
According to Maryland State Police, the fatal accident occurred around 12:59 p.m. on Sunday on Interstate 68. Stevao was a passenger in a Volkswagen Tiguan when a Subaru Forester traveling westbound crossed the median and collided head-on with his vehicle.
The preliminary investigation indicates the Subaru entered the eastbound lanes for unknown reasons. Stevao, the driver of the Subaru identified as John Welin, 79, and a passenger in the Subaru, Karen Berneck, 81, were all pronounced dead at the scene. Two other occupants of Stevao's vehicle sustained injuries and were taken to local hospitals.
An investigation into the precise cause of the crash is ongoing. Officials told the California Post on Tuesday that the wreck remains under investigation.
Stevao, who was 25 years old, attended Centreville High School near Washington, D.C., along with Kobie Turner and his wife. Turner, entering his fourth NFL season and known for his role on the Rams' defensive line, encouraged his followers to support Stevao's family by sharing a link to his obituary.