A cloud of sadness has engulfed the University of Utah campus as freshman running back Ty Jordan, who was only 19 years of age, lost his life last Friday night in an ‘accidental shooting’ in Texas.
The harrowing incident took place in Denton, Texas. The accident was first reported by the Denton Police Dept, who revealed that a gunshot had taken place at the 1100 block of Avenue A at around 10:38 p.m Friday night, which resulted in a single victim. Further investigations revealed that the bullet was shot by the victim itself.
Ty Jordan, a future prodigy, voids the Utes dressing room
The news was later confirmed by the Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham.
“Words cannot express the devastation and heartache that our team is feeling right now upon learning of the tragic death of our teammate and brother, Ty Jordan,” Kyle Whittingham was quoted on the team’s official website.
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Ty Jordan had an amazing freshman season, clocking 597 rushing yards in addition to six touchdowns on 83 carries in just the first five appearances for the Utes. The teenager was also named the Pac-12 Offensive Freshman of the Year, becoming the first Utah player to earn the feat in the last two decades.
In his final game for Utes, Jordan proved vital for their stomping 45-28 victory against Cougars, rushing for 154 yards and landing three touchdowns and made history as the first Utah player to clock back-to-back 100-yard rushes across three matches.
“Ty’s personality and smile were infectious and he made a huge impact on our program in the short time he was with us. He leaves an indelible mark on each of us and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. From the bottom of our hearts, all of us in the Utah Football Family want to say we love you Ty and may you rest in peace,” Whittingham added.
Jordan’s college teammates poured their lamentations on Twitter, as well as Utah Jazz star Donovan Mitchell.
To honour Jordan, the University of Utah did the gesture they perform after every victory- litting up the ‘U’ logo above the school.
“We are deeply saddened and shocked to learn of Ty Jordan’s passing early this morning and our thoughts and prayers are with those who loved him dearly, including the young men in our football program. Our priority is on supporting his family and the student-athletes, coaches and staff in our football program who are so deeply hurting right now. Coach Whittingham and I are working closely to provide support and resources for our Utah Football family in this extremely difficult time,” said Utah athletic director Mark Harlan.
