Politics
College Football Player Dies In Tragic Accident
Andre Seldon Jr., the exceptional 22-year-old cornerback for Utah State who was expected to excel in the NFL’s draft next year, died over the weekend in a tragic accident.
Seldon was swimming with friends when he drowned at a Utah reservoir, according to authorities who briefed local media on the investigation. The Cache County Sheriff’s also told ESPN that the young man’s body was recovered after an extensive rescue by the department’s dive team.
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CNN reported that authorities determined Seldon died after a cliff-diving accident about 20 miles from the school’s campus. Police were called to the scene around 2:20 p.m. local time after reports that Seldon dove into the water and didn’t resurface. “Our investigation leads us to believe this is a tragic accident as multiple witnesses recount the same information,” the Cache County Sheriff’s Office told ESPN.
“Our Utah State University Athletics family is devastated over the sudden death of Andre Seldon Jr.,” Utah State athletic director Diana Sabau said in a statement released by the school. “We extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and all who loved Andre.”
The Utah State University community is mourning the death of football student-athlete Andre Seldon Jr.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/cIScmcewp5
— USU Football (@USUFootball) July 21, 2024
Seldon had bounced between powerhouse schools throughout his collegiate career, beginning at Michigan before transferring to New Mexico State two years ago. He appeared in 28 games and recorded an astounding 98 tackles and two interceptions in that time, which the player credited to his coach Nate Dreiling. He followed Dreiling to Utah State where his mentor took on the role of interim coach after Blake Anderson was fired.
“Our football program is heartbroken to have to endure the loss of one of our own,” Dreiling said in a statement released by the school. “Having had a previous relationship with Andre during our time together at New Mexico State, I can tell you he was an incredible person and teammate. Our condolences and prayers go out to Andre’s family as we grieve with them over this tremendous loss.”
Seldon is the fourth major athlete to die during this year’s summer season. In May star equestrian Georgie Campbell was killed during the four-day Bicton International Horse Trials in the southwest town of Devon, England when her mare tripped over a fence on the course. The resulting impact claimed the 37-year-old’s life. That same month, Drew Gordon, a former Philadelphia 76ers power forward, died unexpectedly in Portland, Oregon on Thursday as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident. Just days earlier, former UFC fighter Geane Herrera died at age 33 after a deadly traffic accident.
Tributes for Seldon began pouring in following the heartbreaking news.
“This is devastating. We followed each other along with his father Andre Seldon Sr. Such nice people. I’m speechless. I’m so sorry @dresel85. Please let us know if there is anything we can do. I can’t imagine. Heartfelt condolences to your entire family and everyone who loved him,” wrote a fellow Michigan alum. “Thoughts and prayers from the Michigan fan, once a Wolverine always one,” added another.
This is devastating. We followed each other along with his father Andre Seldon Sr. Such nice people. I’m speechless. I’m so sorry @dresel85 . Please let us know if there is anything we can do. I can’t imagine. Heartfelt condolences to your entire family and everyone who loved…
— 〽️K 💛💙🏈🏀🏒🦄 (@mkgoblue) July 21, 2024
Thoughts and prayers from the Michigan fan, once a Wolverine always one.
— Wick (@Wickham_Ty) July 21, 2024
“Prayers and love to Andre’s family & friends. Also the Aggie community,” wrote a Utah State fan.
Prayers and love to Andre’s family & friends. Also the Aggie community
— RazzyUteFan (@Crazzmatazzy) July 21, 2024
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