Georgia offensive lineman Devin Willock. And a recruiting staff member were killed in a car crash early Sunday.
The school said, hours after the Bulldogs celebrated. their second national championship with a parade and ceremony.
Two other members of the football program were injured in the crash. Which occurred south of the Georgia campus in Athens. They were not immediately publicly identified; Both are stable, the school said.
Athens-Clarke County Police said in a statement that the single-vehicle wreck occurred at 2:45 p.m.
On Saturday, Georgia capped off a 65-7 rout. Of TCU in the national championship game with a parade downtown. And a ceremony at Sanford Stadium.
A preliminary investigation found that a Ford Expedition “left the roadway. Striking two power poles and several trees,” the statement said.
Willock, 20, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, Chandler LeCroy, 24, was taken to a hospital, where he died from his injuries.
LeCroy was a recruiting analyst for the Bulldogs.
“We are all heartbroken and devastated to lose Devin Willock. And Chandler LeCroy,” Georgia coach Kirby Smart said in a statement. “Devin was an all-around outstanding young man. He was always smiling, a great teammate and a joy to coach.
Smart said LeCroy was “a valued member of our football staff. And brought an incredible attitude and energy every single day.” Adding, “We grieve with the family for this tragic loss and support them in every way we can.”
Police said the wreck remains under investigation. And they have not determined what may have contributed to it. It may take a few more days to issue a report.
“The entire Georgia family is devastated by the tragic. Loss of football student-athlete Devin Willock. And football staff member Chandler LeCroy,” the school’s statement said. “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 you keep everyone’s family in your prayers during this difficult time.”
Wilk’s teammates took to Twitter and Instagram. On Sunday to express disbelief and grief.
“Nah it hurt, I was just with you last night,” Seven Clark wrote on Instagram.
Defensive back Kamari Lassiter wrote that the situation. “Didn’t feel right at all” on his Instagram story.
“We had the bus guys cut it yesterday,” Lassiter said.
Former Georgia defensive lineman Jordan Davis. Tweeted tributes to Wilkes and LeCroy on Sunday, saying he was “heartbroken.”
“Watching them grow and become like family over the years,” Davis wrote. “There is no sorrow without love, and we love you both like family.”
Willock was a 6-foot-7, 335-pound redshirt sophomore from New Milford, New Jersey.
He played extensively as a backup during the 2022 season. And started at right guard in Southeastern Conference wins over Tennessee and Kentucky.
With linemen Warren McClendon and Warren Erickson declaring for the NFL draft. Willock will likely compete for a starting position. This year as the Bulldogs go for a third straight national title.
Police said a 21-year-old male passenger suffered minor injuries. And a 26-year-old female passenger suffered serious injuries. Neither the school nor police have released their identities. Georgia’s statement said that “we will continue to watch. Their condition with medical personnel.”
Georgia said its mental health and performance staff “will ensure. That we are providing the best support possible for our staff. And student-athletes who are processing this grief.”
Hours before his death, Willock retweeted a post. Showing him spending time with a young Georgia fan at a restaurant. Even letting the young man wear his championship ring.
“Special thanks to @devinwillock for making time for my grandson when he didn’t need it,” the tweet read. “You went out of your way to make her feel special and you made her day!! Good luck next year! Go Dogs!”
