Two Indiana State football players killed in car crash, two others hospitalized

Terre Haute, Indiana - Two freshman players on Indiana State University's football team passed away after being involved in a car accident on Sunday, the university confirmed.

Christian Eubanks (l) and Caleb VanHooser were the two Indiana State athletes killed in the car crash over the weekend.
Christian Eubanks (l) and Caleb VanHooser were the two Indiana State athletes killed in the car crash over the weekend.  © Screenshot / Instagram / 4bbash / calxbd

Three people died in the car accident: athletes Christian Eubanks (18) and Caleb VanHooser (19), and fellow Indiana State student Jayden Musili.

Eubanks was a freshman linebacker from Waukegan, Illinois, while VanHooser was a defensive back out of Liberty Township, Ohio.

Though Musili, the third identified victim in Sunday's crash, wasn't an on Indiana State's football team, he was a new student at the university.

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"There are no words to express the depth of our sadness about this tragedy," Indiana State President Dr. Deborah J. Curtis said in a statement. "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."

"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."

The incident took place in the small town of Tiny about 10 miles from Indiana State's campus around 1:30 AM local time on Sunday. According to Vigo County Sheriff John Plasse, the vehicle was on fire when deputies arrived, and the driver and two passengers were pronounced dead at the scene.

However, two additional Indiana State football players survived the crash.

Indiana State mourns the loss of Eubanks and VanHooser

Christian Eubanks (l) and Caleb VanHooser were the two Indiana State athletes killed in the car crash over the weekend.
Christian Eubanks (l) and Caleb VanHooser were the two Indiana State athletes killed in the car crash over the weekend.  © Screenshot / Instagram / 4bbash / calxbd

According to the university's statement, there were two additional football players involved in the accident: Omarion Dixon and John Moore.

Dixon and Moore are currently out of the intensive care unit, but both remain hospitalized and in serious condition.

On Sunday night, hundreds of students gathered at Memorial Stadium to mourn the loss of their fellow Sycamores.

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On Monday, the football team's practice was cancelled, and counseling services were made available for all students, faculty, and staff at the university counseling center.

"It is a terrible day for Indiana State football and a devastating loss for both the Eubanks and the VanHooser families," head coach Curt Mallory expressed.

"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," Mallory added.

Cover photo: Screenshot / Instagram / 4bbash / calxbd

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