The University of Georgia is mourning the loss of offensive lineman Devin Willock and recruitment staff member Chandler LeCroy. After leaving a post-game celebration, the two were killed in a car crash on Sunday in Athens, Georgia.
Statement from President Jere W. Morehead. pic.twitter.com/Hj1WTJZx7F
— UGA (@universityofga) January 15, 2023
According to ABC News, a few hours after the university’s football team held its national championship parade, Willock, 20, and LeCroy, 24, left the event together. Police were called to a crash early in the morning, around 2:45 a.m., at the 900 block of Barnett Shoals Road.
Such a sad and tragic loss for @universityofga Just after winning the national championship a football player and staffer killed in a car crash. Thinking of their families and all who cherished them. pic.twitter.com/vT3YKDlI6p
— Deborah Roberts (@DebRobertsABC) January 16, 2023
LeCroy’s 2021 Ford Expedition was traveling south when the vehicle veered off the roadway, causing the car to hit two power poles and several trees.
We are heartbroken over the passing of Devin and Chandler.
Our prayers are with their families during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/BYLH8Xipwa
— Georgia Bulldogs (@UGAAthletics) January 15, 2023
“The entire Georgia family is devastated by the tragic loss of football student-athlete Devin Willock and football staff member Chandler LeCroy,” the university’s statement read. “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.”
Head coach Kirby Smart said in a statement on Sunday that the team has lost a valuable player and will miss all Willock brought to the field.
— Coach Kirby Smart (@KirbySmartUGA) January 15, 2023
“We are all heartbroken and devastated with the loss of Devin Willock and Chandler LeCroy,” Smart said. “Devin was an outstanding young man in every way and was always smiling. He 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.”
Our thoughts and prayers are with @GeorgiaFootball and the entire University of Georgia community
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) January 15, 2023
Willock was pronounced dead at the scene, and LeCroy was transported to a local hospital, where she died from suffered injuries. Two other students were injured in the crash as well.
According to ABC-7, the other two passengers were a 21-year-old male passenger who sustained minor injuries and a 26-year-old female with serious injuries.
University Of Georgia Football Player Devin Willock & Team Staffer Killed In Car Accident Hours After Championship Celebration https://t.co/Yut2i88ioU pic.twitter.com/GRz1yjOPaj
— theJasmineBRAND (@thejasminebrand) January 16, 2023
“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,” a statement reads.
Police will perform an investigation on the crash site. Our prayers are with their families and friends.