Athens-Clarke police confirmed Georgia football player Devin Willock and football staff member Chandler LeCroy died in a car accident on Sunday.
Two other members of the football program also were injured but are listed in stable condition.
Offensive Linemen Willock, 20, died at the scene. Authorities say LeCroy, 24, was the driver of the vehicle. She was transported to a nearby hospital, where she died from her injuries, Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.
The single-car accident happened around 2:45 a.m. on Barnett Shoals Road. Reports say a 2021 Ford Expedition veered off the roadway and hit two power poles and several trees, WJCL reported.
“We are all heartbroken and devastated with the loss of Devin Willock and Chandler LeCroy,” Georgia coach Kirby Smart said in a statement from UGA. “Devin was an outstanding young man in every way. He was always smiling, was a great teammate, and a joy to coach. Chandler was a valuable member of our football staff and brought an incredible attitude and energy every single day. We grieve with their families for this tragic loss and will support them in every way possible.”
UGA President Jere Morehead made a statement to the newspaper, saying: “On behalf of the University of Georgia, our entire campus grieves for the loss of two young members of our campus community — student-athlete Devin Willock and football staff member Chandler LeCroy. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends. We also pray for the full recovery of those injured in this tragic accident.”
Just hours before the tragic accident, the university celebrated its second straight national championship with a parade and ceremony.
The university’s athletic director Josh Brooks released a statement: “The entire Georgia family is devastated by the tragic loss of football student-athlete Devin Willock and football staff member Chandler LeCroy. Two other members of the football program were injured in the accident.”
“Devin and Chandler were two special people who meant so much to the University of Georgia, our football program, and our athletic department. We ask that everyone keep their families in your prayers during this very difficult time.
“The UGA Athletic Association will work with our medical team as well as our mental health and performance personnel to make sure we are providing the best support possible for our staff and student-athletes who are processing this grief. We can provide no further comment at this time but ask that everyone continue to keep those involved in your prayers.”
Police said the crash and contributing factors remain under investigation.
— Coach Kirby Smart (@KirbySmartUGA) January 15, 2023
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