Matthew “Matt” Williams, a respected and beloved high school basketball coach, tragically lost his life in a car accident on the night of April 12, 2025, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.
At just 37 years old, his sudden passing has left a profound void in the communities he served, particularly at White Hall High School, where he was in his first season as head coach of the boys’ basketball team.
The fatal collision occurred around 11:01 p.m. on South Hazel Street. According to the Pine Bluff Police Department, Williams was driving a white Nissan Altima southbound when his vehicle collided with a northbound 2015 GMC Sierra driven by 38-year-old Darrion William.
The impact was severe, resulting in Williams being pronounced dead at the scene by Jefferson County Deputy Coroner Eric Belcher. The other driver was ejected from his vehicle and transported to Jefferson Regional Medical Center in critical condition.
Coach Williams had quickly become a cherished figure at White Hall High School. In his inaugural season, he led the Bulldogs to a 15-14 overall record, including an 8-8 mark in the competitive 5A South conference.