Chase Stokes Is Opening Up About A Tragic Loss

The cast of Netflix's hit series "Outer Banks" has faced a major tragedy while filming Season 3 of the show. On July 5, Alexander "AJ" Jennings — a stand-in and double for actor Chase Stokes — was killed in a hit and run accident in Charleston, South Carolina, where the teen drama is being filmed. According to a press release from Charleston authorities, the young talent was hit by two vehicles while walking on Sol Legare Road around 2:30 a.m. One of the drivers who fled the scene was reportedly caught shortly after during a traffic stop.

The 22 year old's heartbreaking death was later confirmed by Kimmie Stewart Casting in a social media post. "It is with great sadness that I share on Tuesday Alexander 'AJ' Jennings' mother informed me of his tragic death," the post read. "AJ was a beautiful, kind soul & bright light every day on set. I cannot fathom the shock and tragedy of AJ's sudden loss and our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time." Alongside Kimmie Stewart Casting's statement, one of the show's stars also posted on social media to mourn the loss of Alexander.

Shortly after the tragic death of Alexander "AJ" Jennings was announced, "Outer Banks" star Chase Stokes took to social media to mourn the loss of his stand-in and friend. "Still trying to process why certain things happen, and why the world works in the ways that it does," he said on his Instagram Story. "My heart is shattered. Your life was just starting." Stokes then highlighted a recent conversation the two had before describing the past day as "a struggle." "We all love you, you touched all of our lives and made us all better people for that. Thank you, AJ. Fly high angel." 

Aside from Stokes' heartfelt statement, friends of the actor also used social media to reflect on Jennings and his life. Actor Chevy Coff, who is also part of the "Outer Banks" Season 3 cast, described meeting the young actor as "a blessing" before opening up about their time together. "For him to be gone too soon is still unbelievable we had a ball on the set of @obx this season," he wrote. Another friend uploaded a video compilation of Jennings, writing, "This still feels unreal." 

As of this writing, Netflix has yet to make an official comment regarding the young talent's death, and it's unclear how this tragic loss will impact the show. In an additional report from TMZ, "grief counseling" will be offered to any of the cast and crew in need of emotional support.