ATHENS, GA – Three members of the University of Georgian National Champion football team and a member of its staff were involved in a deadly crash early this morning that left two dead and two injured.
The Atlanta Georgia Constitution reported Georgia offensive lineman Devin Willock, 21, and football staff member Chandler LeCroy, 26, died.
Willock died at the scene, and LeCroy died at the hospital.
There are numerous reports identifying football player Warren McClendon and recruiting staffer Tory Bowles as the surviving passengers.
“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.”
A statement from athletic director Josh Brooks read: “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. They are both in stable condition, and we will continue to monitor their status with medical personnel.
“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.
Today we lost two beautiful souls. Rest in peace Devin Willock and Chandler Lecroy. Prayers up to their families and the UGA community. pic.twitter.com/d2ydP3elEN
— Barstool UGA Back 2 Back National Champions🏆 (@ugabarstool) January 15, 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 but ask that everyone continue to keep those involved in your prayers.”
In a statement from the Athens-Clarke County Police Department, at approximately 2:45 a.m. police responded to a single-vehicle crash in the 900 block of Barnett Shoals Road. Initial investigation indicates that a 2021 Ford Expedition was traveling southbound in the outside lane of Barnett Shoals Road when the vehicle left the roadway, striking two power poles and several trees.
The team defeated TCU in the College National Football Championship game 62-7 on Jan. 9 at SoFi Stadium and celebrated with a victory parade yesterday.
