A Saint Francis University football player, 18-year-old Kevon Walker, was discovered dead in his dorm room at Giles Hall in Loretto, Pennsylvania on November 4, 2024, as confirmed by university officials.
Walker, a freshman defensive lineman originally from Buffalo, New York, was found unresponsive in his bed by fellow teammates, stated Joseph Hribar, Cambria County Chief Deputy Coroner. The authorities have reported no signs of foul play involved in his death.
According to his teammates, Walker had been experiencing illness in the days before he passed away. However, Hribar clarified that the coroner’s office could not confirm if his ill health was a contributing factor to his death.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Walker’s death is being led by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Cambria County Coroner’s Office. The officials are waiting for the results of toxicology and pathology reports to establish the cause and manner of his death.
Saint Francis University Athletics publicly expressed their sorrow over Walker’s death, saying 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, situated about 80 miles to the east of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, suspended classes on the following Tuesday to give students and staff time to grieve. Counseling services were also provided for those affected by Walker’s untimely death.
News of Walker’s death triggered an outpouring of tributes from his loved ones, former coaches, and teammates. Paul R. Woods Sr., Walker’s ex-football coach at Canisius High School in Buffalo, New York, shared his grief on X, posting a heartfelt message alongside a photograph of Walker. He encouraged everyone to keep Walker’s family and the Canisius High School community in their thoughts and prayers.
In his alma mater, Canisius High School, Walker was remembered for his “larger-than-life presence.” Despite his brief tenure in college football, he managed to record two tackles in three games for the Red Flash.
The Saint Francis Red Flash football team, currently with a 3-6 record, has a bye week and will restart their season with away games at Long Island and Mercyhurst beginning November 16.