“Forever in Our Hearts”: Goodyear Grieves Loss of 18-Year-Old John Stull After Tragic Car Crash

GOODYEAR, AZ — A wave of grief has swept through the city of Goodyear following the heartbreaking loss of John Stull, an 18-year-old whose vibrant spirit and deep faith touched many lives. John tragically died on the evening of Saturday, May 3, 2025, following a fatal car accident that has left his family, friends, and the broader community devastated.

According to preliminary reports from the Goodyear Police Department, the crash occurred just after 9:00 p.m. near the intersection of Pebble Creek Parkway and McDowell Road. Authorities have confirmed that the vehicle John was driving lost control and collided with a roadside barrier. Despite the swift response of first responders, John sustained critical injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

An investigation into the crash is ongoing. While no other vehicles were involved, officials are working to determine the exact cause of the accident, including whether weather conditions, speed, or mechanical failure may have played a role. Toxicology results are pending, though officers have emphasized there is currently no indication of impairment or reckless behavior.

John Stull was a senior at Desert Edge High School, just weeks away from graduation. Teachers and classmates described him as a thoughtful, respectful, and faith-filled young man who carried himself with maturity and compassion beyond his years. He was a member of the National Honor Society, active in student leadership, and known for mentoring underclassmen and tutoring peers who needed help with their studies.

Beyond the classroom, John was deeply involved with Wellspring Church, where he was a regular volunteer and youth group leader. Pastor Mark Reilly spoke tearfully during Sunday’s service, just one day after John’s passing.

“John wasn’t just part of this church—he was the heartbeat of our youth ministry. His faith was bold, his love for people was genuine, and his joy was contagious. He had a calling to serve, and he lived it out every single day,” said Pastor Reilly.

John’s sudden passing has prompted an outpouring of support from across Goodyear and surrounding communities. A growing memorial of flowers, candles, and handwritten notes has appeared outside the church and at the crash site, where classmates and neighbors have come to pay their respects.

His parents, Michael and Angela Stull, issued a statement through the church:

“John was our only child and the light of our lives. He loved God, loved others, and always sought to be a blessing to everyone he met. While our hearts are shattered, we find peace in knowing that he is now in the presence of the Lord he served so faithfully. We are thankful for the love and prayers we’ve received and ask for continued support as we navigate this unimaginable loss.”

A candlelight vigil is planned for Thursday evening at 7:30 p.m. at Goodyear Community Park, where friends, classmates, church members, and residents will gather to honor John’s life and legacy. Organizers encourage attendees to bring candles, wear white in his memory, and share stories of how John impacted their lives.

A GoFundMe page has also been launched by close family friends to assist with funeral expenses and to establish a scholarship fund in John’s name for future Desert Edge High School graduates who demonstrate leadership, kindness, and a commitment to service—values John embodied every day.

As graduation approaches at Desert Edge High, the absence of John will be deeply felt. School administrators have announced that a moment of silence will be observed during the commencement ceremony, and John will be posthumously awarded his diploma.

In a world that can often feel chaotic, John Stull was a steady source of light and purpose to those around him. His life, though short, was full of meaning, and his legacy of faith, kindness, and service will live on in the countless hearts he touched.

Memorial Details:

• Vigil: Thursday, May 8, 2025 | 7:30 PM | Goodyear Community Park
• Funeral Service: To be announced by Wellspring Church