A newly released Netflix documentary is shedding fresh light on the tragic 2022 crash that claimed the lives of two young men in Ohio, including a final text message that has left many viewers emotional.
Dominic Russo, 20, and Davion Flanagan, 19, died on July 31, 2022, when a Toyota Camry crashed into a commercial building in Strongsville, Ohio. Authorities determined the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed before impact.
The car was driven by Mackenzie Shirilla, who was 17 at the time. In 2023, a judge found Shirilla guilty of murder, ruling that the crash was intentional. She was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison and remains incarcerated while maintaining her innocence.
Final Message to His Father
The Netflix documentary The Crash includes interviews with family members and friends of the victims, offering a closer look at the hours leading up to the tragedy.
Among the most emotional revelations was a text message Dominic sent to his father, Frank Russo, shortly before the crash. Sent at 2:53 a.m., the message simply read: “Love you dad.”
The message gained renewed attention after body camera footage showed Frank recalling the text while officers informed him of his son’s death.
Friends Recall Their Last Conversations
Davion Flanagan’s close friend, Bubba Turner, also shared details of their final interaction. According to Turner, Davion had originally planned to stay with him and work on a truck the next day.
Before leaving, however, Davion changed his plans and decided to go home. Turner recalled that the two exchanged an unexpected hug and told each other “I love you,” something he said they had not done in a long time.
Family Continues to Grieve
Dominic’s sister, Christine Russo, spoke about the lasting impact of the loss on their close-knit family. She shared memories of her brother’s strong bond with his nieces and nephews and the milestones he never had the chance to witness.
Years after the crash, the families of both victims continue to honor their memories while coping with a loss that changed their lives forever.
The documentary has reignited public interest in the case, focusing not only on the legal proceedings but also on the personal stories of the young men whose lives ended far too soon.
