How unpredictable life is! The CFB world is left in shock as they mourn the tragic loss of a young and promising talent. He had a dream—to make it to the NFL. And he was on the high road to fulfilling his goal. But a devastating car accident cut short the life of the 18-year-old Mason Alexander.

On Sunday morning, tragic news struck the program at its core. HC Pat Narduzzi released an emotional statement on X, grappling with the unimaginable loss. “Our entire program is shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Mason Alexander’s passing,” he wrote. “Mason had just enrolled at Pitt in January following his early graduation from Indian’s Hamilton Southeastern High School… Mason was proud and excited to be a Panther, and we felt the same way about having him in our Pitt family. He will always be a Panther to us.” His heartfelt statement resonated with so many people.

A fan who was a former Pitt alum commented on the post, saying, “Well said coach. Our community here in Fishers is hurting, and your kind words help. – from a Pitt alum and former member of the HSE football program.” Such a heartbreaking turn of events! He was a “very contagious and high-energy guy that always stays positive,” as DB coach Archie Collins previously described him. 

Mason Alexander was involved in a car accident on Florida Road around 9 p.m. on Saturday near his hometown of Indianapolis. According to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office’s report, he was a passenger in a white 2016 BMW 340 that tried to evade an imminent crash from a silver 2015 Toyota Rav4. The vehicle he was in veered sharply to the right, resulting in a loss of control before it collided with a tree. The force of the impact caused the BMW to catch fire, and Mason Alexander was pronounced deceased at the scene. This unimaginable loss hit hard at the fans who poured out their grief and condolences on X. 

Mason Alexander’s passing sent the community into mourning

It always hits the hardest when a young and promising person is gone too soon, and this fan echoed the sentiment. “Young lives lost cut deepest. Prayers for his family and friends. Forever a Panther! Rest in peace young man,” they wrote. He was a highly touted 4-star out of Hamilton Southeast High School, Fisher.

Mason Alexander was an early enrollee at Pittsburgh, eager to begin his collegiate journey. “I’m so sorry. This is such a tragic loss. My prayers are with his family,” another mourning fan wrote. He was one of the crown jewels who committed to Pitt back in June 2024.

When he spoke to the media just days ago, his confidence and determination were undeniable. Another fan posted a tribute saying, “May this good man rest in peace, would have been nice to see him this year but he will always be a Pitt panther! 🙏🏻” What an unspeakable loss, not just for his family but for the whole Pitts football community!

Signing his National Letter of Intent on December 4, Mason Alexander was preparing to join the team’s spring practices. “Horrible tragedy for the family, friends, coaches and teammates of Mason. My deepest sympathy,” another fan penned down. Now, his coaches and teammates are left to honor his memory.

Pittsburgh has vowed to carry the spirit of Mason Alexander with them in the season ahead. His number, his name, and his legacy will forever be a part of the program. Gone far too soon, but never forgotten.