Officials of Saint Francis University confirmed the unfortunate passing of an 18-year-old football player who was found dead in his dorm room at Giles Hall in Loretto, Pennsylvania on Monday, November 4, 2024.
The deceased, Kevon Walker, a freshman defensive lineman originally from Buffalo, New York, was found unresponsive by his teammates, as reported by Cambria County Chief Deputy Coroner Joseph Hribar. There were no signs of foul play, according to the authorities.
Walker’s teammates have informed the police that Walker had been under the weather in the days preceding his death. Hribar however said that the coroner’s office could not confirm if Walker’s ill health was linked to his sudden death.
The investigation into Walker’s death is being conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police and Cambria County Coroner’s Office. The results of toxicology and pathology reports are awaited to establish the cause and circumstances surrounding his death.
The Athletics Department of Saint Francis University expressed their deep sorrow, commenting that “although his time at the university was short, he had a positive impact on the football program, was well-liked and respected among the team, and showed the promise of a very bright future with the Red Flash.”
The University, which is around 80 miles east of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, suspended classes on Tuesday to give students and staff time to come to terms with the tragic news. Counseling services were offered to those affected by this loss.
Walker’s untimely death sparked a wave of tributes from his family, friends, and former coaches and teammates. Paul R. Woods Sr., Walker’s past football coach at Canisius High School in Buffalo, shared his grief on X, expressing how deeply he was affected by the news and encouraged others to keep Walker’s family and the Canisius High School community in their prayers. He posted “R.I.P Kevon Walker..Love you kid” with a picture of Walker.
In his alma mater Canisius High School, Walker is remembered for his “larger-than-life presence.” During his short tenure in college football, Walker had recorded two tackles in three games for the Red Flash.
The Saint Francis Red Flash football team (3-6) has a bye week and will start their season again with away games at Long Island and Mercyhurst starting November 16.