Jhenéy Wallace, a 20-year-old college basketball player with aspirations of playing in the WNBA, died Wednesday afternoon in a rollover crash on the I-15 freeway in the Cajon Pass. The accident occurred around 1:51 p.m. on the southbound I-15 north of Kenwood Avenue in Devore, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Wallace, a resident of Victorville, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her vehicle, a Hyundai Veloster, plunged approximately 80 feet down an embankment. Her mother, Tamara Wallace, described Jhenéy as her first-born, best friend, and a source of constant smiles and encouragement. She was also remembered as a loving sister to her younger siblings and a bubbly, happy presence.
In addition to her basketball pursuits at Victor Valley Community College, Wallace also played varsity volleyball at her local high school. Her college team posted on Instagram that Wallace was more than a teammate, but a cherished member of their community.
Two other individuals were in the vehicle with Wallace: her best friend and the friend's mother. Both were critically injured in the crash and were transported to a local trauma center. Details regarding the cause of the incident have not yet been released by officials.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist Wallace's family with funeral and service arrangements, having raised over $14,500 toward its $15,000 goal. A memorial event to honor her life is scheduled for July 19 at 5 p.m. at Civic Center Park in Apple Valley.