An 18-year-old college football player was found dead in his central Pennsylvania dorm room this week, prompting local authorities to launch an investigation.
Kevon Walker, a freshman defensive lineman at St. Francis University, was found in his bed by his teammates, according to reports. WJACTV.com. A toxicology report is pending and police hope it will help determine the cause of death.
Police say there is no evidence of foul play.
Walker had been “feeling unwell” recently, according to authorities.
The Cambria County Coroner’s Office did not immediately respond to DailyMail.com’s request for more information.
Kevon Walker, a freshman defensive lineman, was found in his bed by his teammates.
Kevon Walker had been “feeling sick” before his death, according to Pennsylvania authorities.
There has been great grief, both in Walker’s native Buffalo and on the Loretto, Pennsylvania, campus.
“Please pray for my family,” Walker’s aunt, Ruby White, wrote on Facebook. ‘We lost a very inspiring young man. RIP nephew.
White signed off by writing, “I love you (and) you will truly be missed.”
A woman who identified herself as a Buffalo native wrote that Walker “was the kind of person who was always willing to help younger children.”
“A true leader and friend,” he wrote. “He will be greatly missed.”
School officials are also reacting to the tragedy.
Kevon Walker has been described as a “true leader and friend” who will be “dearly missed”
Walker (back row, second from left) played only three games in 2024 before passing away.
“The entire department is heartbroken by the tragic and untimely loss of Kevon,” athletic director James Downer said in a statement.
“Although his time at Saint Francis was short, he made a positive impact on the football program, was well-liked and respected among the team, and showed promise for a very bright future with the Red Flash.
“Our sincere thoughts and condolences are with Kevon’s family, loved ones, teammates and coaches during this incredibly difficult time.”
Classes were canceled on campus Tuesday to “allow our university community time to gather, reflect and support each other,” according to a statement from the school.
Playing for former NFL offensive lineman and SFU head coach Chris Villarrial, Walker had two tackles in three games in his young college career.
The 3-6 Red Flash is in Brookville, New York, on the north shore of Long Island, this Saturday for a game with LIU-Brooklyn.
