John Stull Remembered: “Forever in Our Hearts™” — Goodyear Grieves the Tragic Loss of 18-Year-Old John Stull Following Devastating May 3rd Car Crash

The city of Goodyear, Arizona, is enveloped in collective sorrow following the heartbreaking and untimely death of 18-year-old John Michael Stull, a bright, compassionate, and deeply faithful young man whose life was cut tragically short in a fatal car crash on the evening of Saturday, May 3, 2025. Known by many for his radiant smile, unwavering kindness, and profound sense of purpose rooted in faith, John’s passing has created a profound void for his family, friends, church community, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

According to preliminary reports from the Goodyear Police Department, the fatal accident occurred just after 9:00 p.m. near the intersection of PebbleCreek Parkway and McDowell Road. Authorities stated that the crash involved two vehicles, one of which John was a passenger in. The collision, currently under investigation, resulted in fatal injuries for John and left other individuals involved with varying degrees of trauma. While official details are still emerging, police have confirmed that speed and visibility may have been contributing factors.

The Victim: John Michael Stull – A Life of Purpose, Faith, and Service

John Stull, a senior at Millennium High School in Goodyear, was just weeks away from graduation. He had recently committed to attending Grand Canyon University, where he planned to pursue a degree in Youth Ministry—a calling he felt deeply since his early teenage years. John was a regular volunteer at his local church, a beloved older brother, and a gifted musician who often played guitar during Sunday worship services.

His pastor, Reverend Amanda Fields of Living Faith Community Church, described John as “a light for others—a young man with an old soul who saw the world not just as it was, but as it could be through God’s love.”

His family released a heartfelt statement Sunday morning:

“John wasn’t just our son and brother; he was our joy. His laugh could fill a room, his heart embraced everyone, and his dreams were deeply rooted in lifting others up. We are shattered by this loss but know that John would want us to cling to our faith even now.”

Scene of the Crash and Ongoing Investigation

The fatal incident occurred near the intersection of PebbleCreek Parkway and McDowell Road—an area familiar to many residents of Goodyear for its heavy weekend traffic. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud collision around 9:05 p.m., prompting immediate calls to 911. First responders arrived within minutes and attempted life-saving measures on scene before John was transported to Abrazo West Campus Hospital. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.

Detectives from the Goodyear Police Department’s Vehicular Crimes Unit are leading the investigation. While no official cause has been confirmed, investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and examining potential mechanical failures, road conditions, and witness statements. No charges have been filed at this time, and the identities of other parties involved have not been released pending further notification.

Community Vigil and Memorial Services

News of John’s death quickly spread through Goodyear and beyond, prompting an outpouring of grief and support. On Sunday evening, more than 300 people gathered at Millennium High School’s football field for a candlelight vigil in John’s honor. Friends, classmates, teachers, and church members lit candles, shared stories, and prayed together under the soft glow of the evening sky.

One of John’s closest friends, Samantha Bell, tearfully addressed the crowd:

“John wasn’t just a friend—he was the one who reminded you who you were when you forgot. He helped me through the darkest time of my life, and now it feels like the light’s gone out.”

A large wooden cross adorned with flowers, handwritten notes, and photographs of John now stands near the crash site. Local businesses and residents have also placed white ribbons along PebbleCreek Parkway in a symbolic gesture of mourning.

John’s funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, May 10, at 11:00 a.m. at Living Faith Community Church. The service will be open to the public, with a livestream provided for those unable to attend.

Reflections from Teachers, Friends, and Mentors

Mr. Dan Colby, John’s government teacher and senior class advisor, spoke of John’s relentless optimism:

“He had a vision—not just for himself, but for the world. Whether it was organizing a charity food drive or helping underclassmen with homework, John showed up. Always.”

His youth pastor, Jason Nguyen, recalled John’s powerful testimony at last year’s youth retreat:

“John spoke with such conviction. You couldn’t leave a conversation with him and not feel changed, challenged, or encouraged. He was anointed.”

Legacy of Faith and Service

John’s favorite Bible verse, Romans 12:12—“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer”—now circulates widely on social media alongside tributes and photos from those whose lives he impacted.

He leaves behind his parents, Melissa and Daniel Stull; younger siblings, Grace (14) and Tyler (9); his grandparents; and a wide circle of cousins, friends, and mentors. The Stull family has established the “John Stull Memorial Youth Scholarship” through their church to support local students pursuing ministry and community leadership.

A City in Mourning — and a Call for Road Safety Awareness

As the community mourns, local officials are calling for renewed attention to road safety. Councilwoman Rachel Hemmings issued a statement urging increased signage and lighting at the intersection where the crash occurred, citing similar past incidents.

“We owe it to John and others like him to ensure that our city’s roads are not only traveled but traveled safely,” she stated.

Tributes from Across Arizona and Beyond

John’s story has reached far beyond the boundaries of Goodyear. Churches across Maricopa County held moments of silence in his memory. Grand Canyon University, where John had already been accepted and awarded a partial scholarship, released a message from the Dean of Theology:

“Though we never got the privilege to know him in person, John Stull’s legacy of faith already lives within our halls.”

National Christian youth organizations have also begun sharing John’s story as a reminder of the impact one young life can have.

Conclusion: Remembering a Life That Shined Brightly

Though his time on Earth was heartbreakingly short, John Stull lived in a way that many aspire to emulate—a life of compassion, conviction, service, and love. The ripple effects of his influence are evident in the thousands who grieve him today, but also in the commitments being made in his memory—to live more kindly, serve more boldly, and love more fully.

As one vigil attendee, sophomore Jack Perez, wrote in a note pinned to the memorial cross:

“I never got to say thank you for helping me get through chemistry class. Or for always listening when no one else did. So thank you now. I’ll never forget you, John.”

Forever in Our Hearts™

John Stull, 2006 – 2025. A son, a brother, a friend, a leader. Your light lives on.