Devin Willock, a University of Georgia football player, died in a car accident early Sunday morning, just hours after the team won its second consecutive national championship.
According to police, the 20-year-old New Jersey native died while riding in an SUV driven by Georgia recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy. At around 2:45 a.m., the SUV collided with two power poles and several trees, according to police. LeCroy, 24, was also killed.
Willock was an offensive lineman at the University of Georgia. “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,” University of Georgia head football coach Kirby Smart said in a statement.
“We grieve with their families for this tragic loss and will support them in every way possible,” Smart added. University of Georgia football players have also paid their tributes to Willock and LeCroy. “Wasn’t supposed to be like this man,” Bulldogs wide receiver Kearis Jackson tweeted, “love y’all both forever.”
Willock is a 2020 graduate of Paramus Catholic High School. “He was probably one of the nicest people I’ve ever met,” said Christian Mahogany, a former Paramus Catholic teammate.
According to police, a 21-year-old male passenger suffered minor injuries, while a 26-year-old female passenger suffered serious injuries. The two were in good health.