The Outer Banks community delivered some devastating news on Wednesday, July 6. Sadly, cast member Alexander “AJ” Jennings, 22, was tragically killed in a hit-and-run incident that took place on Tuesday, July 5.
AJ worked as a stand-in for Outer Banks star Chase Stokes, 29, who plays the role of John B.
Stokes was one of the first to lead tributes to his colleague.
In a moving post on his Instagram stories, Stokes described AJ as “so damn selfless” and always “making other’s hearts warm.”
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His tribute in full reads: “Still trying to process why certain things happen, and why the world works in the ways that it does.
“My heart is shattered. Your life was just starting. We JUST talked about how pumped you were about your tunes, how far you’d come with that ole 6 string, and your want to keep creating art. Always always making others’ hearts warm and being so damn selfless.”
“I wish I had more words to say right now, but the past day has been a struggle, to say the least.
“We all love you, you touched all of our lives and made us all better people, and for that – Thank you AJ. Fly high angel.”
On Wednesday, July 6, Kimmie Stewart Casting released a statement on Instagram, announcing AJ’s death.
The statement read: “It is with great sadness that I share on Tuesday Alexander ‘AJ’ Jennings’ mother informed me of his tragic death.
“AJ was a beautiful, kind soul & a bright light every day on set. He moved to Charleston from New York to work as our John B photo double/stand in this season.
“I cannot fathom the shock and tragedy of AJ’s sudden loss and our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
“I understand this message may be difficult to process for those of you that met & became fast friends with AJ. Netflix HR has grief counseling available, please reach out to me by email or text and I can get you the information.”
“I am still at a loss of words how this happened & cannot imagine the pain his family is going through. We will miss this amazing human & his infectious smile dearly.”
Charleston County Sheriff’s Office confirmed in a press release that the tragedy occurred on Sol Legare Road near Crozet Drive in North Charleston, South Carolina at approximately 2.30 a.m.
AJ was struck by two vehicles that fled the scene.
He was taken to hospital but sadly died.
According to the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office statement, the second vehicle was located during a traffic stop by police.
At the moment, no charges have been filed and an investigation is currently underway.
Anyone with information can reach the Sheriff’s Office by calling dispatch at 843-743-7200. People who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 843-554-1111.
Outer Banks is streaming on Netflix now.