The Pittsburgh Panthers are coping with the heartbreaking news of losing Mason Alexander, a freshman cornerback, who tragically died in a car accident on Saturday.
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office reports that 18-year-old Alexander was a passenger in a 2016 BMW navigating Florida Road in Fishers, Indiana, his hometown. The driver tried to overtake another vehicle but swerved to avoid an imminent head-on collision upon entering the northbound lane. This swift maneuver caused the BMW to lose control and crash into a tree, triggering a fire. By the time first responders reached the scene, Alexander had already succumbed to his injuries, and he was pronounced dead at roughly 9 p.m. ET.
Alexander had recently graduated ahead of schedule from Hamilton Southeastern High School in Indiana and joined Pitt in January.
“Mason was an extraordinary young man whose absence will be profoundly felt,” remarked Hamilton Southeastern football coach Michael Kelly on Sunday morning. “Honestly, I’m not sure if the reality has fully sunk in yet. It’s hard to comprehend how something like this happens, particularly to someone like him. Mason had a remarkable presence and an uplifting spirit. He never acted superior and was truly gifted.”
### Pittsburgh Coach Pat Narduzzi Offers His Condolences
In response to the devastating news, Pittsburgh head coach Pat Narduzzi issued a heartfelt statement expressing his sorrow while recognizing the profound impact this loss holds for the Panthers’ community.
“This morning, I received a call no parent, teacher, or coach hopes to ever receive—the news of a promising young life cut short. Our entire program is in a state of shock and deep sadness upon learning about Mason Alexander’s death,” Narduzzi shared.
As a cornerback, Alexander ranked among the country’s top recruits. He was a standout two-time all-state honoree and had garnered offers from several elite programs before choosing Pitt, favoring it over Purdue, Wisconsin, and many others.
This piece includes contributions from Kyle Neddenriep of the Indianapolis Star, which is part of the USA TODAY Network.
