In a shocking turn of events, LSU's freshman quarterback Colin Hurley was found unresponsive following a car accident on campus. The incident occurred early Thursday morning, raising concerns about the young athlete's well-being. Hurley, who is just 17 years old, was taken to a local hospital after emergency services responded to the scene. While the cause of the crash remains under investigation, officials have stated that impairment is not suspected. The community has rallied around Hurley, with messages of support pouring in from across the football world.
Details of the Incident and Community Response
On the crisp winter morning of January 16, 2025, at approximately 2:45 a.m., LSU's promising freshman quarterback Colin Hurley was involved in a serious car accident on the university's campus. According to reports, Hurley's Dodge Charger collided with a large oak tree near one of the main pathways used by students. Emergency medical services quickly arrived on the scene and found Hurley unresponsive but breathing, with visible injuries including a significant cut on his face.
The vehicle sustained extensive damage, leaving pieces scattered along the sidewalk as students made their way to classes later that morning. Notably, a sizable portion of the oak tree's bark was missing, with parts of it reduced to sawdust, indicating the severity of the impact. Despite the alarming nature of the incident, officials have stated that impairment is not believed to be a factor in the crash.
Hurley was promptly transported to Our Lady of the Lake Health, where he received immediate medical attention. By Thursday evening, his family issued an update, expressing gratitude to the first responders and healthcare professionals. They assured the public that Colin is stable and resting while undergoing further tests and care. The family expressed confidence in his full recovery and thanked Tiger fans for their unwavering support.
Given Hurley's status as a minor, LSU officials declined to provide detailed comments on the incident. However, the football community has shown immense solidarity, with numerous well-wishes flooding social media platforms. Devin Rispress, Florida State University’s director of recruiting, and On3 reporter Pete Nakos were among those offering prayers and support for Hurley and his family.
As a native of Jacksonville, Florida, Hurley had been highly regarded in the 2024 recruiting class, finishing as the No. 25 quarterback according to 247Sports. He reclassified and joined LSU a year early, arriving on campus at the age of 16. LSU head coach Brian Kelly had previously praised Hurley's determination and potential, noting his rapid adaptation to the team despite initially being third on the depth chart.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of life, even for young athletes at the peak of their careers. It underscores the importance of prioritizing safety and mental health alongside athletic pursuits. The outpouring of support for Hurley highlights the strong bonds within the sports community and the collective hope for his swift recovery.