The world was shaken by the heartbreaking news of Dixie Lewis’s untimely passing in a tragic car accident. At just 19 years old, Dixie was a promising young student, athlete, and beloved daughter of best-selling author Michael Lewis and photographer Tabitha Soren. The devastating accident that claimed her life and that of her boyfriend, Ross Schultz, left family, friends, and the broader community in deep mourning.
The Accident That Took Two Young Lives
On May 25, 2021, Dixie Lewis and her 20-year-old boyfriend, Ross Schultz, were traveling northbound on State Route 89 near Truckee, California. Their vehicle, for reasons still under investigation, veered into the southbound lane and collided head-on with a Freightliner truck. The impact was severe, and both Dixie and Ross tragically lost their lives at the scene.
Authorities ruled out alcohol and drugs as contributing factors in the accident. However, the exact cause remains unknown. The California Highway Patrol continued its investigation into what might have led to the tragic crash, leaving many questions unanswered.
A Life Filled with Promise
Dixie Lewis was known for her intelligence, passion, and determination. A graduate of Berkeley High School, she was an exceptional athlete and student. She played varsity softball for four years and was admired by teammates and coaches alike. Dixie’s dedication to sports and academics was evident in everything she pursued.
Her love for learning led her to Pomona College, where she had just completed her first year. She planned to study neuroscience, driven by a deep curiosity about the human brain and a desire to make a difference in the world. Pomona College released a statement mourning her loss, describing her as “a talented young woman with a bright future.”
Her close friends remember her as a vibrant and caring person. Lauren Ziment, a fellow Pomona student, shared, “Dixie was my first friend at Pomona. She was such a caring and radiant person. She made everyone around her feel valued and loved.”
The Devastation Felt by Family and Community
Dixie’s passing left a profound void in her family’s life. Her father, Michael Lewis, known for best-selling books such as Moneyball and The Big Short, expressed his grief in an emotional statement. “A hole has been blown in our lives,” he said, describing the pain of losing a daughter with such a promising future.
Her mother, Tabitha Soren, a renowned photographer and former MTV News correspondent, also shared her heartbreak. The family, devastated by the loss, received an overwhelming outpouring of love and support from friends, colleagues, and the public.
Ross Schultz, Dixie’s boyfriend, was also deeply cherished by those who knew him. He had recently graduated from Berkeley High School and was studying kinesiology at Cal Poly Pomona. His former soccer coach, Eric Verso, described him as “an incredible person, a great player, and a great human being.” His family, too, was left heartbroken, mourning the loss of a young man with great potential.
Community Tributes and Memorials
In the wake of the tragedy, heartfelt tributes poured in from friends, teachers, and community members. Vigils were held to honor the lives of Dixie and Ross, allowing people to come together to celebrate their memories. Friends shared stories of Dixie’s kindness, her infectious laughter, and the impact she had on those around her.
Pomona College and Berkeley High School both paid tribute to Dixie, highlighting her achievements and the joy she brought to her peers. The loss of such a bright young woman resonated deeply within the academic and athletic communities.
The Enduring Impact of Dixie Lewis
Though Dixie Lewis’s life was tragically cut short, her memory continues to inspire those who knew her. Her dedication, passion, and kindness serve as a reminder of the impact one person can have on the world. Her family, friends, and community will forever cherish the beautiful moments she shared with them.
As the investigation into the accident continues, her loved ones find solace in the love and support that surrounds them. The lives of Dixie Lewis and Ross Schultz, though brief, were filled with purpose, love, and promise. Their story is a painful reminder of the fragility of life, but also of the power of love and community in times of grief.
