University of Georgia football player and staffer killed in crash, officials say
A 20-year-old University of Georgia football player and a 24-year-old recruiting staffer were killed in a crash just hours after their team celebrated a national championship win, officials said and news outlets reported.
Offensive lineman Devin Willock and staff member Chandler LeCroy died in the crash on Sunday morning, Jan. 15, according to a statement from the University of Georgia Athletic Association. Two other members of the football program were hurt in the crash but are in stable condition, according to the association.
The crash happened around 2:45 a.m. on Jan. 15 in Athens, south of the University of Georgia campus — just hours after the Saturday night championship celebration, the Associated Press reported, citing the Athens-Clarke County Police Department.
Police said the football team members were driving in a Ford Expedition that “left the roadway, striking two power poles and several trees,” according to the Associated Press.
“Devin and Chandler were two special people who meant so much to the University of Georgia, our football program and our athletic department,” the athletic association’s statement said. “We ask that everyone keep their families in your prayers during this very difficult time.”
Members of the football community have come forward to share their condolences on social media.
“Devin was an outstanding young man in every way and was always smiling. He was a great teammate and a joy to coach,” head coach Kirby Smart said in a statement on Twitter. “Chandler was a valuable member of our football staff and brought an incredible attitude and energy every single day.”
Willock, who was from New Milford, New Jersey, played in all 15 games of the season, including the national championship, according to his bio with the University of Georgia.
The Bulldogs beat the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs 65-7 on Jan. 9 in the championship.
An investigation into the fatal crash is ongoing, police told 11 Alive.
This story was originally published January 15, 2023 at 11:33 AM with the headline "University of Georgia football player and staffer killed in crash, officials say."
