Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Former University of Houston Football Players Killed in Tragic Downtown Houston Car Crash

HOUSTON, Texas – The city of Houston is in mourning as family, friends, teammates, and fans remember the lives lost in a devastating car crash that occurred in downtown Houston on Saturday morning. The accident claimed the lives of six individuals, three of whom have been identified as former University of Houston football players: D.J. Hayden, Zach McMillian, and Ralph Oragwu. The Houston Police Department reported that the three former athletes were traveling in an SUV when they were struck by a speeding driver who ran a red light at approximately 2 a.m.

In addition to the three former football players, two others tragically lost their lives in the crash, while two more individuals remain hospitalized. The devastating incident has left the Houston community in shock and disbelief.

Hayden, McMillian, and Oragwu, who all grew up in Fort Bend County, were not only teammates but also close friends who continued to support each other after graduating from the University of Houston. The communities they hailed from, including Missouri City and Sugar Land, are also mourning the loss of these promising young men.

During the homecoming game between the University of Houston and the University of Cincinnati later that day, a poignant moment of silence was held to honor the memory of the three alumni. Their photos were displayed on the video boards as the entire stadium paid their respects.

The athletics department of the University of Houston released a statement expressing their profound grief and extending their deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the former players. The statement highlighted the significant impact these individuals had on the lives they touched and emphasized the collective sense of loss felt by the entire community.

D.J. Hayden, who miraculously survived a life-threatening heart injury during a University of Houston practice session in 2012, went on to become the 12th overall pick in the 2013 NFL draft by the then-Oakland Raiders. Although his professional football career ended in 2021, Hayden remained involved in the sport as a volunteer defensive backs coach at Second Baptist School. Through his coaching role, he aimed to inspire and make a positive impact on young student-athletes.

The loss of these exceptional athletes leaves a void in the hearts of many. Their talent and achievements on the football field will be remembered, but their legacies extend beyond their athletic prowess. Hayden, McMillian, and Oragwu were known for their camaraderie, leadership, and dedication to their communities.

Demetrius Woods, a former teammate, fondly recalled the unique qualities of each player, describing Hayden as a funny and lighthearted individual, McMillian as a role model, and Oragwu as a supportive and caring presence. Ted Pardee, the University of Houston football color analyst, echoed the sentiments, emphasizing the exemplary leadership and community involvement of the three former players.

The tragic loss of Hayden, McMillian, and Oragwu, along with the others affected by the crash, has deeply impacted the University of Houston football program and the wider community. These young men will be remembered not only for their athletic achievements but also for the way they touched the lives of those around them.

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