All his life, he remained known for his gentle heart. Sure, from Weber State to BYU, he’d make a mark on the court. But his impact beyond, continues to serve a warm memory. “Jake is the guy you want on your side, always!” his wife had made known years ago. But in disheartening news, the Alpine native, a true family man, a Cougar for life, and one who dedicated his life to making a difference, tragically passed away at age 46. Family, teammates, and fans are yet soaking in the news, shedding light on the individual he was.

“On behalf of Shoff and Criddle families, we share the sad loss of a giant of a man—a giant in every sense of the word,” brother-in-law and former BYU Cougar, Ben Criddle said in a post. “Our world has been flipped upside down. We are reeling and devastated. No words can describe the void we are all experiencing right now.”

Former BYU standout Jake Shoff passed away on Thursday in a devastating multi-vehicle accident on Interstate 15 near the Point of the Mountain. According to reports from FOX 13, Shoff was behind the wheel of his Mercedes G63 when tragedy struck.

It is reported that his vehicle was driving recklessly on the right shoulder at high speed before rear-ending a Nissan Sentra, which then collided with a median barrier. His car then sideswiped two other vehicles before ultimately rolling onto its side. While emergency responders managed to extricate him from the wreckage through the sunroof, he was pronounced dead at the scene. However, the cause is still being investigated and a police statement suggests a “medical emergency” is suspected.

The crash was so severe that it shut down four right-hand lanes of northbound I-15 for over five hours. As news of Shoff’s passing spread, fans couldn’t help but express their sorrow, sending out heartfelt tributes.

A giant of the court and heart: fans and family reflect on Jake Shoff’s inspiring legacy

The 6-foot-9 giant played for the Cougars from 2001 to 2004 after transferring from Weber State. He’d average a little over 11 minutes and 2.7 points, starting only 2 games, one of which came during the first round of the NCAA Tournament 2002-03, but his efforts seemed to have been as evident as any.

“So saddened to hear the news of Jake Shoff’s passing. I fondly remember watching him play at BYU. He worked so hard and played with joy. May his family, friends, and the @BYUMBB program be comforted in this tragic time,” penned a spectator on X.

But his presence extended much beyond the court. Teammate Jim Balderson noted how Shoff looked after him during his freshman year and helped worked towards his goal. “I loved Jake,” he penned. The impact isn’t lost on the Cougar loyals.

“Prayers to the Shoff family. Jake was a big man with a big heart and was loved by so many. #BYUhoops,” added another user.

Balderson isn’t alone. His former teammates recall his leadership and the joy of a person he was. NBA prospect Rafael Araujo, who played alongside Shoff, expressed his devastation, saying, “I can’t express the size of the sadness I felt when I received this information. I’m in shock. A great friend… off the court, a fun and excited colleague for all hours.”

While Araujo is still in shock, another friend and former teammate, Jonathan Tavernari, is feeling nostalgic. In fact, he was the one of the last persons Jake met just a few days before the accident. “As always, Jake stopped, and we gave the biggest hug. Two massive dudes, like grizzlies, hugging,” he wrote on social media.

It is a void that will never be filled, especially for a family of six that is now five.

Beyond basketball, Shoff was a devoted husband and father. “Our Jenson family is devastated by this tragic news. The Shoffs are dear friends—Jake’s passing will leave a big hole in our hearts. Mary Ann, Carl, and family—we send our love and prayers to you and mourn with you,” added another user.

Shoff leaves behind his wife of near-25 years, Emily Criddle, and their four children—Zach, Brady, Grant, and Max.