ATHENS, Ga. — The University of Georgia is reporting that Georgia offensive lineman Devin Willock and a football staff member, Chandler LeCroy, died in an early morning car crash on Sunday.
The report came from a statement from the university. Two other people also were injured in the crash.
In the statement released from Josh Brooks:
“The entire Georgia family is devastated by the tragic loss of football student-athlete Devin Willock and football staff member Chandler LeCroy,” the statement read. “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."
Willock, 20, was a redshirt-sophomore from New Milford, New Jersey. LeCroy, 24, was listed as part of the recruiting staff for Georgia. Willock started two games on the offensive line this past season for the national champion Bulldogs.
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart had nothing but praise for both Willock and LeCroy.
“We are all heartbroken and devastated with the loss of Devin Willock and Chandler LeCroy," Smart said in a release. "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.”
According to Athens-Clarke County Police, “... at approximately 2:45 a.m., ACCPD 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.
"Willock died at the scene as a result of his injuries. The driver, Chandler LeCroy, 24, was transported by EMS to a local hospital where she died as a result of her injuries, A 21-year-old male passenger sustained minor injuries and a 26-year-old female passenger sustained serious injuries. The investigation remains ongoing."
Georgia had finiished celebrating its second straight national championship with a parade in Athens earlier in the day.
