The Baltimore community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Timothy Summerville Jr., affectionately known as DJ TNT, a beloved local DJ and educator who was killed in a devastating wrong-way crash on Interstate 95 in Howard County, Maryland.
Summerville, 47, died early Saturday morning, November 7, 2026, in a head-on collision near Elkridge. According to Maryland State Police, the crash involved a 2025 Jeep Gladiator driven by 37-year-old Taleb Ait Zakariae of Rosedale and a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Summerville.
Investigators say Zakariae was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of I-95 when the two vehicles collided. Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities believe alcohol and excessive speed may have contributed to the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.
Known throughout Baltimore as DJ TNT, Summerville was more than a familiar face behind the turntables. He was also a dedicated educator who made a lasting difference in the lives of young people.
Since 2018, he had worked with students at the St. Francis Neighborhood Center in Baltimore, where he participated in after-school and summer enrichment programs. His creative teaching style incorporated music into education, helping students learn subjects such as mathematics, English and science.
Through his passion for DJing, Summerville found innovative ways to connect with students, including teaching them how to count beats and understand music while developing valuable academic skills.
Colleagues described him as someone who had a special ability to connect with young people and bring out their best. His sudden passing has deeply affected students, staff members and the wider Baltimore community.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott also expressed his condolences, describing Summerville’s death as a tragic and unnecessary loss for the city.
Beyond the classroom, DJ TNT was a familiar presence at Baltimore-area events and nightlife venues. Friends and loved ones recently gathered at Melba’s Place to celebrate his life and honor the impact he made through music, friendship and community service.
The St. Francis Neighborhood Center canceled its after-school programs for the week to give students and staff time to grieve.
As Baltimore remembers Timothy Summerville Jr., his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, both on the dance floor and inside the classroom.
Y’all Know What extends heartfelt condolences and prayers to the Summerville family, his friends, students, colleagues and everyone mourning this tremendous loss.
