MVSU LB Ryan Quinney, 20, killed in car crash

Mississippi Valley State University linebacker Ryan Quinney was killed in a car crash on Friday. He was 20 years old.

According to Yazoo County Coroner Ricky Shivers, via ESPN, Quinney, a junior at MVSU, was a passenger in the vehicle that was attempting to flee Mississippi Highway Patrol. The pursuit ended when the driver, who has not been named, lost control of the vehicle.

Quinney was pronounced dead at the scene.

The school released a statement regarding the tragic accident via Facebook to send heartfelt condolences to his family, teammates, and friends.

He will be deeply missed by his friends, faculty, and all who knew him,” the statement reads. “During this difficult time, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Ryan’s family and loved ones.”

According to ESPN’s report, the accident happened in Yazoo City, Mississippi which is approximately 50 miles from Jackson. MVSU was set to take on Jackson State on Saturday — a game that was played as scheduled. However, the pursuit began in Flora, roughly halfway between Yazoo City and Jackson.

Shivers told reporters at the scene that when the driver lost control of the vehicle, it went through a ditch and hit a parked vehicle before “going airborne.” The car struck a light pole and flipped multiple times before coming to a stop.

The ‘Jaw of Life’ tool was utilized to rescue the driver of the vehicle, who was airlifted to the University of Mississippi Medical Center. However, their condition is unknown as of this report.

Quinney was in his second season with Mississippi Valley State at the time of his death, where he played in five games in 2024. He totaled 13 tackles for his team this season. In 2023, he played in 10 games for MVSU totaling 60 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and a pass breakup.

Mississippi Valley State is scheduled to play Florida A&M on the road in Week 12. They’re still searching for its first win of the season.