Furman student-athlete killed in motorcycle crash

A Furman University student-athlete was killed in a motorcycle collision.

Jackson Roberts, 22, was the passenger on a motorcycle that crashed late Friday night. The senior from Memphis was a student coach with the lacrosse team after playing for the Paladins for two seasons.

The incident occurred around 10 p.m., and the driver of the motorcycle, another Furman student, suffered non-life-threatening injuries in the crash, according to multiple reports.

According to the Greenville County coroner, Roberts died of blunt force trauma to the head wyff4.com reported. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

“In this time of profound sorrow, the university extends its most heartfelt condolences to Jackson’s family and friends,” Furman President Elizabeth Davis said in a statement shared on Facebook. “Such a loss impacts the entire Furman community because we live and learn so closely together. … We give thanks for the life of Jackson and all he brought to our community. May all who knew him find peace and comfort during this difficult time.”

Roberts was studying economics and politics and international affairs. He helped Furman win a SOCON championship in lacrosse.

“The sport of lacrosse brought us together, and it will always have his name on it here at Furman for sure,” teammate Jonah Moore said to wyff4.com. “The family we have here at Furman, as a lacrosse program, is incredible. That’s going to help us get through this together. But it’s not going to be easy.”

The team will practice on Monday, but say they are stronger now and will dedicate every game to Roberts, according to wspa.com.

Furman reported the chaplain’s office, counseling center, and the office of student life will be available on Tuesday to students, faculty and staff. Students needing need help over the weekend before Tuesday should call University Police at 864-294-2111 to be connected with the appropriate support.

This story was originally published January 14, 2018 at 11:36 PM with the headline "Furman student-athlete killed in motorcycle crash."