Syracuse basketball head coach Jim Boeheim was involved in a tragic accident late Wednesday night. Here’s the official statement from the University.
Syracuse basketball head coach Jim Boeheim was involved in a tragic car accident late Wednesday night that resulted in a pedestrian being struck and killed on Interstate 690.
Syracuse.com was first on the story and revealed some key details here:
- Driving conditions weren’t ideal with “light freezing rain” around the time of the accident. Although it hasn’t been confirmed by the police that it was a factor in the accident.
- Boeheim did not have any alcohol in his system.
- No traffic tickets have been issued at this time, the police revealed.
Release from Syracuse Police: Jim Boeheim was trying to avoid a disabled vehicle in the middle of the road when he hit the victim. No signs of impairment from drugs or alcohol via field tests. It truly, based on the info we have right now, sounds purely like a tragic accident. pic.twitter.com/cdIRKiMZUT
— Niko Tamurian (@NikoTamurian) February 21, 2019
"“On Thursday the Syracuse police responded to 690 East near Thompson Road for a crash. Upon Officers arrival, they found a 51-year old victim, Jorge Jimenez, of Syracuse who had been struck by a vehicle. The victim was transported to Upstate University Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.”"
The early findings of the investigation from the police include the following:
- The victim was an occupant in a vehicle that had lost control on the highway striking a guard rail.
- The occupants then exited the vehicle and proceeded to walk on the highway within close proximity to that vehicle.
- An oncoming vehicle noticed the disabled car and tried avoiding the vehicle which was in the middle of the road.
- As a result, the driver, James Boeheim struck the victim who was standing on the side of the road.
All parties are fully cooperating with the investigation. The next step will be the reconstruction of the scene will be performed and speeds cannot be determined at this time. The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Syracuse Athletic Director John Wildhack:
"“We are saddened by the death of a member of our Central New York community. On behalf of Chancellor Kent Syverud and the entire Syracuse University community, we extend our deepest condolences to all impacted by this tragic accident. Coach Boeheim is in contact with local authorities and cooperating fully. Out of respect for those grieving, there will be no further comment at this time.”"
***UPDATE***
Jim Boeheim Statement:
"“I am heartbroken that a member of our community died as the result of last night’s accident. Juli and I extend our deepest sympathies to the Jimenez family. Out of respect for those involved, I will not be providing further comment at this time.”"
***UPDATE (4:58 p.m.)***
John Wildhack Statement – February 21, 2019 – 4:45 pm
"“Our hearts go out to all those impacted by the tragic accident involving Coach Boeheim. The Coach is heartbroken. Coach Boeheim met briefly with his team today but did not attend or participate in practice.”"
We’ll provide any further factual information that is revealed in the coming days and weeks regarding this investigation and what the immediate future holds for coach Boeheim. Our thoughts and prayers are with all involved in this horrible tragedy.