Authorities in Roanoke have released additional details surrounding a devastating early morning crash that claimed the life of a young woman and led to the arrest of the vehicle’s driver on charges of DUI and manslaughter.
The fatal collision occurred at approximately 3:24 a.m. on Saturday, May 18, 2025, at the intersection of Gainsborough Road and Harrison Avenue NW. When emergency personnel arrived at the scene, they found a white BMW 540i overturned and lodged in a tree. Two women were still trapped inside the vehicle, while two men were located outside, having been ejected or able to exit the vehicle following the crash.
One of the women inside the vehicle, 22-year-old Brooklin Makhia Goff of Bedford, was pronounced dead at the scene. Goff’s death marks yet another tragic loss on Roanoke’s roads, and her passing has left a wave of grief throughout her community.
The other passengers sustained various injuries. A female passenger was treated at a local hospital and has since been released. A male passenger remains hospitalized with serious injuries, though his condition has not been publicly updated.
Police have identified the driver as Xaviar James Gaither, 21, of Roanoke. Gaither was arrested at the scene and is currently facing charges of driving under the influence (DUI) and manslaughter in connection with the crash. Authorities say further charges may be pending as the investigation continues.
According to a preliminary report from Roanoke Police, the white BMW was traveling northbound on Gainsboro Road SW at a high rate of speed. Near the intersection with Patton Avenue NW, the vehicle attempted to change from the left lane to the right. During the maneuver, it struck a curb on the east side of the road, lost control, hit a street light, went airborne, and ultimately landed upside down in a tree.
Crash reconstruction teams and investigators are working closely with the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office to determine if additional charges will be filed. Officials have not yet commented on potential contributing factors such as blood alcohol content, road conditions, or whether seat belts were in use.
The crash has reignited concerns in Roanoke and beyond about the dangers of impaired and reckless driving. Community members have begun to express their sorrow and outrage over the preventable loss of life.
Brooklin Goff, who was just 22, is being remembered by friends and family as a vibrant young woman with a bright future. Tributes on social media describe her as kind-hearted, full of energy, and someone who brought joy to those around her.
As the legal process moves forward, loved ones are left grappling with the sudden and tragic circumstances of her death.
Anyone with additional information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the Roanoke Police Department as investigators work to gather a complete picture of the events leading up to the crash.
Funeral arrangements for Brooklin Goff have not yet been announced. The community continues to mourn her loss and hopes justice will be served in the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy.