JAMES ISLAND, S.C. — Alexander “AJ” Jennings, a cast member for the popular Netflix series “Outer Banks,” was struck and killed by multiple cars in a hit-and-run early Tuesday morning.
Charleston County Sheriff’s Office told WCIV that Jennings, 22, was hit around 2:30 a.m. south of Charleston on James Island. Law enforcement officials said he was struck by two vehicles while walking on the road. Both vehicles fled the scene.
Officers from the Charleston Police Department identified the second vehicle in a traffic stop in downtown Charleston, according to WCBD.
No charges have been filed. The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office is still trying to identify the first vehicle that struck Jennings.
Jennings was the body double for Chase Stokes, who plays “John B.” The show is in its third season and is filming in the Charleston area.
Stokes posted a message on his Instagram mourning the loss of Jennings.
“Still trying to process why certain things happen, and why the world works in the ways that it does. My heart is shattered. Your life was just starting.”
In a Facebook post, the casting agency for the series, Kimmie Stewart Casting, also mourned Jennings’s death.
“It is with great sadness that I share on Tuesday Alexander “AJ” Jennings’ mother informed me of his tragic death. Outer Banks crew & cast suffered a terrible loss when AJ was stuck by two cars, that fled the scene early this morning. AJ was a beautiful, kind soul & a bright light every day on set. He moved to Charleston from New York to work as our John B photo double/stand in this season. 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. I understand this message may be difficult to process for those of you that met & became fast friends with AJ. Netflix HR has grief counseling available, please reach out to me by email or text and I can get you the information. I am still at a loss of words how this happened & cannot imagine the pain his family is going through. We will miss this amazing human & his infectious smile dearly.”