Home/Olympics

A devastating car crash has shaken the track field and the high school community in New Jersey. 23-year-old Mario Heslop, a rising sprinter from Jamaica, tragically lost his life in a shocking tri-car collision in Somerset County, New Jersey on Monday. 

As per records, this young runner was arguably one of the best and scored solid ground in sprinting during his high school years. With an impressive track record, Heslop had created history, earning numerous accolades during his high school and college days. Hailing from Jamaica, he made a name for himself as one of the finest young runners in New Jersey’s history. But fate had other plans, and he left this world, leaving behind memories and a bunch of records.

The Heartbreaking Accident

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

According to the report published in Jamaica.loopnews.com, on a fateful day in New Jersey, Heslop’s life was cut short in a car collision in Somerset County. He was driving his 2013 Infiniti Q50s and was en route to Hamilton Street in Franklin Township when he crossed the center line of the road, resulting in a devastating crash with an oncoming vehicle from the opposite direction. The impact led to a subsequent collision with a third car coming from the same side at Hillcrest Avenue.

via Reuters

He was given first aid at the scene and was immediately rushed to the nearby hospital along with the other two drivers who got injured in the accident. Despite the immediate assistance provided and the rushed transport to the hospital, doctors sadly announced the passing of this remarkable athlete. As per reports, the incident is under investigation.

The former Franklin track star’s demise is a big loss to Jamaica, New Jersey, and the athletics world, as his recent performances were a testament to his strength on track.

A Shining Star in Track and Field

Before his passing, this Jamaican runner was a hot topic during his high school track and field years. Coming from Kingston, Jamaica, he made a name for himself as one of the finest high school runners in New Jersey’s history. After graduating from Franklin High School in 2019, Heslop created three state records during his high school career, won a championship title, and was also declared athlete of the year in 2018 and 2019 consecutively.

As reported by ‘My Central Jersey’, Franklin track coach Dashaun Gourdine spoke about Heslop in April 2019 and had some great things to say. “As much as he’s in the spotlight, he’s really a humble kid. When he walks around the building, he’s not flashy. He just walks around like your average high school kid, but you can tell the difference when it’s time to go and compete.”

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Read More: “I Cry So Hard”: Olympians Dad Saving Him After Painful Injury During a Race Leaves Fans Sobbing Even After Years

In 2019, Heslop further solidified his craft by clinching the New Balance Indoor title in the 200-meter event, clocking an impressive finish time of 20.90 seconds. This remarkable achievement placed him among the top performers in the entire United States. Following his high school graduation, Heslop continued to excel in his athletic pursuits, representing North Carolina State AT&T University. He has a personal best of 10.12 seconds in 100 meters and 20.44 seconds in 200 meters, according to the World Athletics website.

His final appearance was earlier this year at the KSU Invitational hosted by Kennesaw State University in Georgia. Heslop emerged victorious in both the 100m and 200m events, recording impressive times of 10.54 seconds and 20.78 seconds, respectively. The untimely passing of Mario Heslop has left the track and field community in shock and mourning. His dedication, talent, and bright future have been abruptly cut short, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew him and admired his athletic abilities.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Watch This Story: Chris Evert, Who Had Ex-Husband’s Immense Support During Cancer Battle, Regrets Losing Him For Legendary Golfer Greg Norman – ‘You’re Right…’

A GoFundMe.com page has been set up in an effort to raise $30,000 for the funeral.