Pittsburgh College Football Player, 18, Tragically Dies in Car Crash

Mason Alexander, an 18-year-old freshman cornerback with a promising future in college football, has tragically passed away in a car crash in Indiana. Alexander was set to compete for the Pittsburgh Panthers after enrolling at the university in January.

According to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the accident occurred on Saturday night. A white 2016 BMW 340, attempting to pass a southbound 2015 Toyota RAV4, veered into the northbound lane. Realizing the imminent risk of collision, the BMW’s driver swerved to the right, sliding through grass, hitting a tree, and ultimately catching fire. Alexander was identified as a passenger in the BMW. Meanwhile, the Toyota driver collided with a mailbox but avoided further harm.

Pittsburgh head coach Pat Narduzzi expressed his condolences in a heartfelt statement, saying, "I received a call this morning that no parent, teacher, or coach ever wants to get — 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. Mason had just enrolled in Pitt in January following his early graduation from Indiana’s Hamilton Southeastern High School. Even during that short time, he made a great impression on all of us."

Narduzzi added, "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. The Alexander family and Mason’s many loved ones and friends will be in our prayers."

Alexander was a standout athlete from Hamilton Southeastern High School in Fishers, Indiana. He had already begun spring practice with the Panthers, showcasing the talent that earned him recognition as a three-star recruit. Ranked among the top 300 high school players in the class of 2025 by ESPN, his future in football was undeniably bright.

As his teammates, coaches, and loved ones grapple with this devastating loss, Alexander’s legacy as a dedicated athlete and cherished individual will undoubtedly endure.