Two U.S. Navy Sailors Identified Among Victims in Fiery I-5 Collision Near Camp Pendleton

San Diego, CA – Military authorities have identified the two U.S. Navy sailors who tragically lost their lives in a fiery “chain reaction” collision on Interstate 5 near Camp Pendleton. The accident, which also claimed the life of a civilian and left five others injured, occurred in the early hours of Thursday.

The sailors, Stephen Jermaine Williams, 37, and Jess Lee Davis, 38, were recognized as distinguished officers who had served their country honorably. Both had notable careers in the Navy, contributing significantly during their time stationed in San Diego.

Stephen Jermaine Williams, a Damage Controlman 1st Class from Texas, was most recently stationed at the Southwest Regional Maintenance Center in San Diego. Williams was transitioning between duty stations at the time of the collision. He enlisted in 2006 and earned several commendations, including a Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and a Meritorious Unit Commendation.

Jess Lee Davis, a Culinary Specialist Submarines 1st Class from Tennessee, was serving on the USS Alexandria in Los Angeles prior to the incident. Davis had been stationed at Naval Base Point Loma multiple times during his military career. He enlisted in 2005 and received numerous awards, including two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and a National Defense Service Medal.

The identity of the third person who died in the crash, a civilian, has not yet been disclosed. Details about the injured individuals have also not been made public. The accident, involving two cars and four motorcycles, happened shortly before 3 a.m. near the Las Pulgas exit on southbound I-5. According to the California Highway Patrol, the “chain reaction” crash was initiated when a Jeep swerved off the road.

U.S. Navy spokesperson Brian O’Rourke expressed the Navy community’s grief, stating, “The Navy community is grieving the loss of two comrades in Thursday’s traffic incident. Our condolences and prayers are with the families, friends, and colleagues of the sailors, and we request that they are given privacy during this challenging period.”

The accident has left a deep impact on the Navy and the local community. Both sailors were respected and valued members of their units and will be remembered for their dedication and service. The Navy is providing support to the families and colleagues of Williams and Davis, ensuring they have the necessary resources during this time of mourning.

As investigations continue into the cause of the collision, the California Highway Patrol and other authorities are working to piece together the events that led to the tragic accident. The Navy and the broader community await further details, hoping for clarity and answers in the wake of this devastating incident.