This week, tragedy struck the Louisiana State University (LSU) community as 18-year-old pole vaulter Dillon Reidenauer was killed in a car accident.
Local news reports reveal that Reidenauer was in a vehicle that collided with a motorcyclist in Baton Rouge, leading to a deadly crash.
Both vehicles were reportedly engulfed in flames, resulting in the loss of both lives.
The motorcyclist, too, tragically passed away in the incident.
A Heartfelt Statement from LSU Athletics
LSU Athletics expressed deep sorrow over the loss in an official statement.
“We are heartbroken to share the tragic news of the passing of freshman track and field student-athlete Dillon Reidenauer in a traffic incident Wednesday evening in Baton Rouge,” the statement read.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Dillon’s family, friends, and teammates, as well as with those impacted by the loss of another individual who died as a result of the incident.
We are providing resources and support to all of our student-athletes and staff directly impacted by this tragic loss.”
A Rising Star in Pole Vaulting
Reidenauer was known for her exceptional talent in pole vaulting.
LSU’s athlete website described her as one of the top pole vaulters in the state of Louisiana.
Her commitment and passion for the sport were evident in a post she made last May, expressing her excitement to continue her pole vaulting career at LSU.
“I’m so excited to announce that I will continue to pole vault for Louisiana State University next year.
I am so blessed and grateful to have a great support group and a wonderful coach who has taught me everything I know,” she wrote on Instagram, sharing her enthusiasm about joining the LSU track and field team.
Coach Dennis Shraver’s Tribute
Following the heartbreaking news, LSU’s track and field coach, Dennis Shraver, spoke out about the loss.
“Everyone in our LSU track and field family is keeping Dillon’s loved ones in our thoughts and prayers, as well as those of the other individual lost in the incident,” Shraver said, reflecting the profound sadness felt by the LSU community.
A Community in Mourning
As the LSU family mourns the untimely passing of Dillon Reidenauer, the community has come together to offer support and comfort to her family, friends, and teammates during this incredibly difficult time.
The loss of this young athlete is felt deeply across the entire LSU campus and beyond.
More Details to Follow
As investigations into the crash continue, more information may be released.
For now, the LSU community is focused on remembering Reidenauer’s life and the impact she had on those around her.