Zelena Ophelia Moon, also known as Amanda Leroux, tragically passed away on the night of January 1, 2025, in a devastating car accident on Cooley Bridge Road.
Alongside her, three others lost their lives, including her fiancé, Joshua Ward, and two close friends, Audrey Ross and another companion.
Key Takeaways
- Zelena Ophelia Moon was a gifted artist known for her evocative paintings, often characterized by dark and introspective themes, and she also modeled and shared her creative work on social media.
- Zelena and her fiancé, Joshua Ward, began dating in May 2024 and became engaged in December 2024. Their relationship was filled with love and creativity, as reflected in their social media posts.
- On January 1, 2025, Zelena tragically lost her life in a car accident caused by a drunk driver on Cooley Bridge Road, along with her fiancé and two close friends.
The accident occurred around 9 p.m. on New Year’s Day when the SUV Zelena was in was struck by a BMW driven by an intoxicated Christopher Meeks.
The SUV, which was backing into a driveway, caught fire upon impact. A 911 call was made at 9:22 p.m., but the tragedy had already unfolded.
Meeks has since been arrested and charged with four counts of felony DUI resulting in death and driving under suspension.
The tragedy has deeply shaken the Hillsborough, North Carolina, community, leaving Zelena’s family, friends, and fiancé’s loved ones devastated.
A Heartfelt New Year Post on Her Final Day
On the day of her passing, Zelena shared an uplifting and reflective Facebook post, celebrating the milestones she achieved in 2024.
She wrote:
In retrospect, I can state that this year has been extremely favorable for me. The highlight of my year was my first art exhibition in April, which opened doors to various new opportunities, including a forthcoming show in February. Additionally, I met a remarkable man and formed meaningful connections with numerous exceptional people who have become an integral part of my life. I take great pride in my accomplishments, both artistically and personally, as I continue to evolve and gain a deeper understanding of myself. If you knew about the obstacles I have surmounted to reach this milestone, you would be astonished. I am looking forward to an even more remarkable year ahead.
Via Facebook
She also posted a lighthearted meme and a loving message dedicated to her fiancé, Joshua Ward:
“I love staring at my man, he gorgeous!”
Via Facebook
These posts, published mere hours before her untimely passing, have since become a source of heartbreak for those who knew her.
Her mother, Andrea L. Leroux, expressed her grief on Facebook:
Rip my sweet beautiful daughter ❤️
Via Facebook
Andrea, who had been a staunch supporter of Zelena’s artistic pursuits, has been devastated by the loss of her daughter and her future son-in-law.
She honored their memory by changing her profile picture to an image of the late couple.
A Life of Talent, Love, and Promise
Zelena was a gifted artist known for her emotive paintings that often carried a dark, introspective essence.
She also modeled and shared her creative journey on social media.
Zelena and Joshua began dating on May 11, 2024 and became engaged on December 1, 2024.
She often spoke about how special their relationship was, sharing a heartfelt memory from their first date:
Want to know how I knew he was the one?
Via Instagram
On our first date, he didn’t bring me flowers, he brought me paint. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you. I love you.
#isaidyes
Joshua, a talented drummer, composer, vocalist, and martial arts instructor, was equally devoted to their relationship.
He was also a loving father to his 10-year-old son, Kai. On the day of their passing, he posted a simple but affectionate picture with Zelena, captioned:
ha! ❤️
Via Instagram
The passing of Zelena Ophelia Moon and her loved ones is a profound loss to all who knew them. Her creativity, kindness, and love left an indelible mark on her community.
In this time of grief, we extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims. May Zelena and all those lost in this tragedy rest in eternal peace.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Zelena Ophelia Moon was born in Tampa, Florida.
- She joined Rasmussen University to pursue graphic design animation of arts in 2018.
- Moon was passionate about writing.
