Tragic Loss: Utah Football Star Andre Seldon Jr. Dies in Cliff-Diving Mishap
Utah State University is mourning the tragic loss of Andre Seldon Jr., a promising football player who passed away in an apparent cliff-diving accident at Porcupine Reservoir.
The 22-year-old athlete was discovered by the Utah Department of Public Safety dive team on Saturday evening, following reports of a possible drowning.
According to a press release from the Cache County Sheriff's Office in Logan, deputies responded to the scene after witnesses reported seeing Seldon diving from cliffs into the water but not resurfacing.
Lt. Tim Ramirez confirmed that initial investigations suggest the incident was a tragic accident, with multiple witnesses providing consistent details.
Seldon, known for his talent as a cornerback, had recently joined Utah State University and was set to begin classes this upcoming fall semester.
Prior to his time at Utah State, he played two seasons each at New Mexico State University and the University of Michigan. He graduated from Belleville High School in Belleville, Michigan.
Nate Dreiling, interim head coach and defensive coordinator at Utah State, expressed profound sorrow over the loss, describing Seldon as an exceptional individual and teammate.
Dreiling, who had previously coached Seldon at New Mexico State, emphasized the impact of the young athlete's character and athletic prowess.
"Our football program is heartbroken to have to endure the loss of one of our own," Dreiling conveyed in a tribute posted on the university's athletic website.
Diana Sabau, Vice President and Director of Athletics at Utah State, echoed the sentiments of loss and offered condolences to Seldon's family, friends, teammates, and all who knew him.
"Our Utah State University Athletics family is devastated over the sudden death of Andre Seldon Jr.," Sabau stated, underscoring the deep impact of the loss on the entire athletic community.
In response to the tragedy, emotional and mental health support has been extended to athletics staff and student-athletes affected by Seldon's untimely passing.
The circumstances surrounding the accident remain under investigation as authorities work to gather more details about the incident at Porcupine Reservoir.