Joshuah Nassaru Ward, the drummer for the rising North Carolina death metal band Voraath, was one of the four victims in a drunk-driving crash on New Year’s Eve in Greenville, South Carolina.
Zelena’s fiancé, Ward, and two other people including 29-year-old Audrey Maris Ross, and 30-year-old Amanda Lynn Leroux were killed in the accident. South Carolina Highway Patrol reported four people struck by a 2012 BMW, driven by 31-year-old Nicholas Shane Meeks as he pulled out of a driveway into a Subaru SUV. The impact flung the Subaru off the road into a tree killing everyone inside.
Nicholas Shane Meeks was booked on four felony DUI charges which include death after his arrest. He was denied bail yesterday. It was reported that Meeks was driving while his license was suspended where he was convicted of a DUI in March 2024. He was guilty but allowed to go free on a personal recognizance bond of $993 in May. In 2023, he was also charged with reckless driving.
There has been a phenomenal rhythm ever since the band Voraath published its debut in June 2024 as its first album, ‘Vol.1: The Hymn of the Hunters.’ Before the mishap, the whole group was actually partying online and posting great excitement about finally making it this far over various social media avenues.
A day after the news, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated to raise funds for Ward’s family, focusing on his son. It has surpassed $20,000 so far, indicating generous donations from his fans, friends, and the general music fraternity.
Voraath hasn’t commented on the tragedy yet, but fans and fellow musicians all over are paying their tributes. His contributions to the band and his vibrant personality have left an indelible mark on those who knew him.
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This is one of the tragic incidents that have long put at risk the dangers of drunk driving. Advocacy groups are demanding stricter DUI laws be implemented that should not cause more such tragedies in the future.
Joshua Nassaru Ward will be remembered not only for his incredible talent but also for the warmth and dedication he gave to his family, friends, and music. His legacy will live in the hearts of all who were touched by his life.
