“Jay Briscoe, a 38-year-old professional wrestler known for his work with the Jacksonville-based wrestling company Ring of Honor (ROH), passed away in a car accident on Tuesday.
The accident, which occurred in Laurel, Delaware, also resulted in the death of a 27-year-old woman, Lillyanne Ternahan, and left Briscoe’s two young daughters critically injured.
According to the Delaware State Police, Ternahan was driving a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 when she veered into Briscoe’s lane, causing a head-on collision with his 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation, and it is not known if alcohol was a factor.
Briscoe, whose real name was Jamin Pugh, had been a prominent figure in ROH for over 20 years, and was widely considered a wrestling superstar. Along with his brother Mark, he formed a successful tag team known as Dem Boys, and the pair held 12 ROH World Tag Team belts.
Tony Khan, CEO of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and Ring of Honor, confirmed the tragic news in a statement on Twitter, expressing condolences to Briscoe’s family and promising to support them in any way possible. He wrote, ‘Sadly, Jamin Pugh has passed away. Known to fans as Jay Briscoe, he was a star in ROH for over 20 years, from the first show until today. Jay and his brother Mark dominated ROH, reigning as champions to this day. We’ll do whatever we can to support his family. Rest In Peace Jamin’.”
“We are deeply saddened to announce the loss of Jamin Pugh, known to wrestling enthusiasts as Jay Briscoe. Our condolences go out to his loved ones, friends, and fans during this difficult time.” Ashley Pugh shared a moving statement on Facebook early Wednesday.
“We need prayers! Gracie is on her way into surgery on her back. Jamin would want the whole world praying for his little girl,” she wrote. “WE BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF PRAYER!! Pray for the doctors and everyone working on her! Pray for her precious legs to move again! Pray for Jayleigh who has some pretty serious injuries, but is stable and resting! Pray for Gannon waiting at home! Pray for strength for all of us! We have a long long road ahead of us!”