Morgan Gamble, a 21-year-old student at Clark Atlanta University who appeared as a background performer in Netflix's reboot of A Different World, died on Tuesday after her vehicle was struck by a car. The other driver was allegedly travelling at 94mph in a 35mph zone and has been charged with reckless driving, speeding and first-degree vehicular homicide.
Collision details and charges
The collision happened at around 11.15pm. Morgan was found in critical condition and both drivers were hospitalised in the aftermath, but she could not be saved. People magazine reported the driver of the car that hit her is currently being held in Fulton County Jail after being charged. The investigation is ongoing.
University confirms tragic loss
Her university confirmed the sad news in a social media statement on Wednesday. It read: "It is with profound sadness that Clark Atlanta University acknowledges the passing of Morgan Gamble, a member of our Panther family."
"The loss of a member of our University community is deeply felt, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to Morgan’s family, friends, classmates and all who knew and loved Morgan. Out of respect for the family and their privacy during this difficult time, the University will refrain from sharing additional details. We ask the CAU community to join us in honoring the family’s privacy as they navigate this unimaginable loss."
The school also confirmed it would offer counselling services to students mourning the loss of their friend.
Tributes from showrunner and community
Morgan had recently worked as a background performer on Netflix’s A Different World reboot and showrunner Felicia Pride shared a tribute to the tragic young woman. "So very sorry and sad to hear about the passing of Morgan Gamble, who in addition to being a superstar student at Clark Atlanta, was also a background performer on A DIFFERENT WORLD," she wrote. "We were grateful to have her be a part. Sending all of her loved ones and the CAU community love, light, and prayers."
Further tributes flooded in on social media as news of the tragedy became public. On Facebook one person penned: "This is so hard to read! I pray for peace and strength for her parents and loved ones. Rest well Morgan." Another added: "May this young and beautiful soul rest in eternal peace Such an unfortunate tragedy. Atlanta has to do something about this racing at high speed all day and night on our roads."
A third chimed in: "My deepest condolences to the family and friends of those affected by this devastating loss." A fourth shared: "My deepest condolences and prayers are with her family and all who love her. Rest in love Morgan." Meanwhile a fifth reflected: "This is such a tremendous loss to CAU class of 2027. Morgan was my daughter's freshman roommate, friend, and they shared the same major. We are absolutely devastated. Please pray for everyone who loved her especially her parents who live locally."
