Wrestling star Jay Briscoe, 38, killed in Delaware car crash, state police say

Jay Briscoe, a professional wrestling star and Sussex County native, has died at the age of 38, according to the Ring of Honor wrestling company.

Briscoe, whose real name is Jamin Pugh, formed the 13-time reigning championship tag team "The Briscoe Brothers" with his brother Mark, and was part of the Ring of Honor company for over two decades.

Ring of Honor, as well as its owner Tony Khan, shared the news of Briscoe's passing Tuesday night:

"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," Khan said.

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"It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the tragic passing of Jamin Pugh, known to wrestling fans around the world as Jay Briscoe. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and his fans," ROH tweeted.

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According to Delaware State Police, Briscoe and his daughters were in a car crash on Laurel Road on Tuesday evening. 

Troopers say 27-year-old Lillyanne Ternahan of Frankford, Delaware, was driving a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and traveling west on Laurel Road as Briscoe was traveling in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 east in the same area. 

Ternahan moved out of the lane, crossed the center lane and entered the eastbound lane of Laurel Road, causing a head-on collision in the eastbound lane, according to state police. 

Authorities say both Ternahan and Briscoe were pronounced dead on scene. 

Briscoe's two daughters, ages 9 and 12, were in the back seat and they were both transported to a local hospital, where they were placed in critical condition, state police say. 

The Laurel School District closed school Wednesday in response to Pugh's death, according to an announcement on Facebook.

"Due to an unthinkable tragedy in our community this evening, the Laurel School District will be closed for tomorrow, Wednesday, January 18, 2023. Schools will reopen Thursday. Please keep the Pugh family in your thoughts and prayers."

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.