A rising college football star was tragically killed in a horror car crash at the age of 18 after colliding with a tree.
Mason Alexander, a University of Pittsburgh student, died Saturday night when his car caught fire.
The incoming Pitt freshman was killed in his hometown of Fishers, Indiana.
Alexander was a passenger in a BMW that tried to pass a Toyota just before a hillcrest.
The driver desperately swerved the car when they realized another vehicle was approaching from the other side of the road.
Before catching fire, this BMW veered off the road and collided with a tree.
Alexander was tragically pronounced dead at the scene of the horrific crash.
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that an investigation into the terrifying crash has begun.
Alexander was one of Pitt’s most promising football prospects for 2025.
He was scheduled to join the team for spring practice this month, having signed with the school in December and enrolled early.
A deluge of heartbreaking tributes poured in for the aspiring college athlete.
Pat Narduzzi, Pitt’s coach, said Alexander made a “great impression on all of us”.
He stated, “I received a call this morning that no parent, teacher, or coach ever wants to receive—the news of the sudden loss of a young and promising life.
“Our entire program is shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Mason Alexander’s passing.”
Marduzzi continued, “Mason was proud and excited to be a Panther, and we felt the same way about having him in our Pitt family. “He will always be a Panther to us.”
Alexander was a star cornerback at Hamilton Southeastern High School in Fishers before attending college.
Peyton Daniels, Alexander’s former high school teammate, paid a touching tribute to his friend on X.
Daniels stated, “Mason lit up every room he was in. Everything and everyone gained a sense of joy and play. With a single interaction, he has the power to alter the course of your day.
“Mason is the epitome of exceptional. Rest Easy 15. “Love forever.”
Michael Kelly, Alexander’s former high school coach, praised the former student for his “next level” talent.
Kelly said, “Mason is a special young man who will be greatly missed.
“To be honest, I am not sure if I am still shocked, but the most difficult thing to think about is how things can happen to people, especially someone like him.”
“He exuded a distinct presence and positive energy. He did not believe he was bigger than life in any way, and he possessed next-level talent.