Eighteen-year-old Howard University freshman Mohamed Samura, from Fredericksburg, Virginia, tragically lost his life when a faculty member driving a speeding car struck him on the Washington D.C. campus near Cook Hall, just before 3:40 p.m. on April 11, 2024.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department, the driver, a faculty member at Howard University, was operating an Audi sedan that failed to properly negotiate a left turn from 6th Street onto Fairmont Street, hitting a parked car before mounting the curb where Samura was standing. Despite immediate medical attention, Samura passed away in the hospital on April 15, surrounded by his grieving family. The faculty member was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
Mohamed Samura, known affectionately as ‘Mo’ to his friends and family, was a dedicated Computer Information Systems program student and a beacon of kindness in the community. He was actively involved in volunteer work at a senior living facility and was recognized for his academic achievements as a Dean’s List honoree at the School of Business. His vibrant presence extended to the university’s eSports team, where he was equally cherished.
His mother, Regina Swarray, described her son’s incredible impact on her life, emphasizing the depth of their bond and the void his absence leaves. “I grew up with this boy. I am empty,” she shared.
In tribute to Samura, the Howard community gathered for an emotional vigil on Monday evening, April 15, with about 150 students, faculty, and staff united in solidarity. The ceremony included addresses by Howard University’s President Ben Vinson III, Dean Bernard L. Richardson of the Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel, Vice President of Student Affairs Cynthia Evers, HUSA Vice President Jay Jones, and representatives from various student groups.
Dean Richardson emphasized the community’s solidarity and support, reflecting on its capacity to endure adversity: “The feelings are here, the support is here, the sense of community. That all helps us to deal with something tragic like this.”
Mourners gathered solemnly around the campus flagpole, some quietly crying and offering each other solace, while others paid their respects with flowers or pictures of Samura.
President Vinson addressed the assembly, conveying the community’s shared grief: “We all grieve with those who knew Mohamed best—his family, his friends, his community,” he told the attendees. I see no better way to honor Mohamed than with a moment like this with all of us together. We lean on each other. We’re here for you if you need assistance in this moment of hardship.”
Following President Vinson, Vice President Evers reminded those present of the importance of unity: “In times like this,” she noted, “it’s essential that we come together as one. Students, faculty, and staff.”
The community placed flowers at the flagpole. The group also prayed together, lifting their voices to honor and mourn Samura, with many holding white roses as symbols of remembrance.
Investigations into the crash are ongoing, with the Metropolitan Police Department leading the inquiry into the accident’s circumstances. As the community awaits further details, the emphasis remains on supporting those affected by the tragedy and honoring Samura’s memory.
