Indiana State University is grieving the tragic loss of students Christian Eubanks, Jayden Musili, and Caleb VanHooser, who died early Sunday morning in a one-car accident. The Vigo County Sheriff released the names Monday.
Indiana State University is grieving the tragic loss of students Christian Eubanks, Jayden Musili, and Caleb VanHooser, who died early Sunday morning in a one-car accident. The Vigo County Sheriff released the names Monday.
Musili, 19, a sophomore from Fort Wayne, Indiana, was part of the Pathway to Blue program and became an ISU student this year. Eubanks, 18, a freshman from Waukegan, Illinois, and VanHooser, 19, a freshman from Liberty Township, Ohio, were football players for the Sycamores.
"There are no words to express the depth of our sadness about this tragedy," ISU President Dr. Deborah J. Curtis said. "We send our condolences to the family and friends of the students involved. The Sycamore family is mourning and will support each other in this time of grief."
Police said there were a total of five people in the car. Two of them were ISU football players Omarion Dixon and John Moore. They are out of intensive care but still in serious condition.
Counseling services are available for students, faculty, and staff at the Student Counseling Center, 217 North 6th Street on the second floor of Gillum Hall. The phone number is 812-237-3939.
Musili, said Pathway to Blue Director Sadé Walker, was a hard worker with a positive attitude. Pathway to Blue is a bridge program between Ivy Tech Community College and ISU.
"His smile was infectious," Walker said of Musili. "He worked very hard to navigate college. He was very excited about his classes and becoming a Sycamore."
The football team did not practice Monday. ISU student-athletes gathered Sunday night at Memorial Stadium to mourn the tragedy.
"My heart is broken at the loss of these three souls," said Sherard Clinkscales, Director of Athletics. "Life is so precious, and it is very difficult to comprehend when tragic events like this happen. They will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences and prayers go to each of their families."
Said head football coach Curt Mallory: "It is a terrible day for Indiana State football and a devastating loss for both the Eubanks and the VanHooser families. Both young men were quality individuals who were loved and respected by their teammates and this staff. To say they will be missed is an understatement. Our continued prayers and support are with their families, friends, and teammates during this difficult time."