Two Indiana State football players among 3 killed in car crash on Sunday
Two Indiana State football players were killed in a single-vehicle car crash near campus on Sunday morning, the school confirmed on Monday.
Three people were killed in the crash in total, and two other players were hospitalized as a result. Freshman Christian Eubanks, 18, and Caleb VanHooser, 19, died in the crash, as did Jayden Musili, 19.
Players Omarion Dixon and John Moore were hospitalized. The school said they Monday that they are out of intensive care but are still in serious condition.
"It is a terrible day for Indiana State football and a devastating loss for both the Eubanks and the VanHooser families,” coach Curt Mallory said in a statement. “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."
Our deepest thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to the families and everyone involved in this tragic accident.
We send our thoughts and prayers to Caleb and Christian's family, friends and teammates during this difficult time.https://t.co/xgM8T1tJyppic.twitter.com/i3OgRc8Adl— Indiana State Football (@IndStFB) August 22, 2022
VanHooser was a defensive back and wide receiver from Liberty Township, Ohio. Eubanks was a linebacker from Waukegan, Illinois. Musili was a sophomore from Fort Wayne, Indiana.
According to The Associated Press, the vehicle went off a state highway about 10 miles from Indiana State’s campus in Terre Haute and struck a tree. Police said the car was on fire when deputies arrived, and the three were pronounced dead at the scene. It’s unclear what led to the crash specifically, or who was driving the car.
"My heart is broken at the loss of these three souls," athletic director Sherard Clinkscales said in a statement. "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."
