News
JSU Mourns Student-Athlete
Jackson State University Division of Athletics is mourning the untimely death of Leroy Hawkins, 17, an incoming student and football player who passed away Monday night in Dallas. Reportedly, Hawkins was shot multiple times while sitting in a car and later died of his wounds.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Leroy Hawkins,” JSU Vice President and Director of Athletics Ashley Robinson said in a statement. “Leroy was a tremendous son, athlete, student and friend, and he will be sorely missed. We offer our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
“Leroy Hawkins was a very special young man,” JSU Head Football Coach John Hendrick said. “We will keep Leroy and his family and friends in our thoughts and prayers through this difficult time.”
Hawkins was a standout offensive lineman at DeSoto High School in DeSoto, Texas. He helped lead his team to a 9-3 overall record and advanced to the second round of the 6A Division I playoffs.
He was also a Top 300 offensive lineman and 34th in Texas, according to MaxPreps, a website that covers American high school sports.