Just one day after celebrating its second straight national championship, the University of Georgia football community is mourning the loss of two members.
UGA offensive lineman Devin Willock and football recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy were killed in a car wreck early Sunday, authorities said.
Willock, 20, died at the scene of the crash on Barnett Shoals Road. LeCroy, 24, of Toccoa, was transported by EMS to a local hospital, where she died from her injuries, Athens-Clarke County police say.
Two other members of UGA’s football program, offensive tackle Warren McClendon, 21, and recruiting staffer Tory Bowles, 26, are both in stable condition, DawgNation.com reports.
The University of Georgia Athletics Department issued a statement saying the entire Georgia family is “devastated” by the tragic loss of Willock and LeCroy.
“Devin and Chandler were two special people who meant so much to the University of Georgia, our football program and our athletic department,” the statement read. “We ask that everyone keep their families in your prayers during this very difficult time.”
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
Willock signed with Georgia out of New Milford, N.J. as a member of the 2020 signing class. He played in all 15 games for Georgia this season, rotating in at the guard positions for the Bulldogs. Willock was a Risk Management & Insurance major.
Willock started games this season against Tennessee and Kentucky as well.
LeCroy worked as a recruiting staffer for the Georgia football program.
Pre-dawn crash
At approximately 2:45 a.m. on January 15, Athens-Clarke County police responded to the crash in the 900 block of Barnett Shoals Road.
According to police, the initial investigation indicates LeCroy was driving a 2021 Ford Expedition southbound in the outside lane. The vehicle left the roadway and struck two power poles and several trees.
This is the first fatal wreck in Athens-Clarke County this year. Police are still investigating the crash.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Athens-Clarke County Police Department at 762-400-7090 or by email at [email protected].
Kirby Smart statement
UGA head football coach Kirby Smart issued a statement on Sunday following news of the fatal crash.
“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.”
A story that we feel deserves to be seen by Dawg Nation this morning ❤️ RIP Devin https://t.co/an5IpvmK9I
— Classic City Collective (@ClassicCityCLTV) January 15, 2023
Georgia held its national championship celebration Saturday afternoon in Athens. The Bulldogs won their second consecutive national championship earlier this week, beating TCU 65-7.
