Fayetteville police have released new details about a deadly traffic crash on Cliffdale Road near Regency Drive, shedding light on the moments that led to the fatal collision. The crash, which unfolded after a separate accident nearby, has left one man dead and two others fighting for their lives, deeply impacting multiple families and the surrounding community.

According to the Fayetteville Police Department, the deceased was identified as Dameion Anderson, 40, who was driving a 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe. Police said the second vehicle involved was a 2023 Jeep Gladiator, driven by Daniel Mafnas, 57, with Mercedes Mafnas, 65, as a passenger. As of Friday afternoon, both Daniel and Mercedes Mafnas remained hospitalized in critical condition.

Investigators with the department’s Traffic Unit revealed that Anderson had been involved in a separate crash just moments earlier in the parking lot of the Cliffdale shopping plaza near Reilly Road and Cliffdale Road. After that initial collision, police say Anderson fled the scene. The vehicle he reportedly struck then began following him as he traveled down Cliffdale Road.

Police said that after passing Bunce Road, Anderson lost control of his SUV while navigating a curve. His vehicle crossed into the oncoming lanes of traffic, where it collided nearly head-on with the Jeep Gladiator. The violent impact caused severe damage to both vehicles and brought traffic in the area to a standstill.

Emergency crews rushed to the scene and transported three people to a local hospital, including Anderson and the two occupants of the Jeep. Despite medical efforts, Anderson later succumbed to his injuries. The other two victims remain in critical condition as doctors continue to treat their serious injuries.

The Traffic Unit continues to actively investigate both the initial parking lot crash and the deadly collision on Cliffdale Road. Police say more information is expected as the investigation develops. Officials are urging drivers to slow down, stay alert, and avoid reckless behavior, especially on busy roads like Cliffdale Road. Fayetteville police say reducing speeding, preventing dangerous driving, and lowering traffic deaths remain a top priority as the community mourns this tragic loss.