Kirby Smart releases statement on passings of Devin Willock, Chandler LeCroy

The University of Georgia is mourning the losses of rising junior offensive lineman Devin Willock, 20, and recruiting support staffer Chandler LeCroy, 21, on Sunday. The two were involved in a car accident early Sunday morning with Willock passing on the scene and Chandler passing later at the hospital.

Not long after the news was announced by UGA, Kirby Smart released a statement.

“We are all heartbroken and devastated with the loss of Devin Willock and Chandler LeCroy,” Smart said. “Devin was an outstanding young man in every way. He was always smiling, was a great teammate and a joy to coach. Chandler was a valuable member of our football staff and brought an incredible attitude and energy every single day. We grieve with their families for this tragic loss and will support them in every way possible.”

The accident involved two other passengers, both of whom survived. Warren McClendon was in the car and sustained minor injuries. The other passenger sustained serious injuries and is currently under medical care.

Josh Brooks releases statement on Willock, LeCroy passings

“We are covering the families of Devin Willock and Chandler LeCroy in prayer this morning. We are deeply saddened on the tragic loss of Devin and Chandler, and we will continue to honor their memory in the years to come.

“These two special people meant the world to our football program and athletic department. We are working with our medical staff and mental health and performance team to ensure our staff and student-athletes have all the support they need during this extremely difficult time.”

A Statement from Athens-Clarke County Police

“On January 15, 2023, at approximately 2:45AM, ACCPD responded to a single-vehicle crash in the 900
block of Barnett Shoals Road. Initial investigation indicates that a 2021 Ford Expedition was traveling
southbound in the outside lane of Barnett Shoals Road when the vehicle left the roadway, striking two
power poles and several trees. A passenger, Devin Willock, 20, died at the scene as a result of his
injuries. The driver, Chandler LeCroy, 24, was transported by EMS to a local hospital where she died as a
result of her injuries. A 21-year-old male passenger sustained minor injuries and a 26-year-old female
passenger sustained serious injuries.

“The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information regarding the crashed is asked to contact
Lieutenant Butt at 762-400-7090 or via email at [email protected].

“This is the first fatal motor vehicle crash of 2023 in Athens-Clarke County.”

A statement from the University of Georgia

“The entire Georgia family is devastated by the tragic loss of football student-athlete Devin Willock and football staff member Chandler LeCroy. Two other members of the football program were injured in the accident. They are both in stable condition, and we will continue to monitor their status with medical personnel.

“Devin and Chandler were two special people who meant so much to the University of Georgia, our football program and our athletic department.  We ask that everyone keep their families in your prayers during this very difficult time.

“The UGA Athletic Association will work with our medical team as well as our mental health and performance personnel to make sure we are providing the best support possible for our staff and student-athletes who are processing this grief. We can provide no further comment at this time but ask that everyone continue to keep those involved in your prayers.”

Willock’s time at Georgia

The New Jersey native had just wrapped up his third season at Georgia, appearing in all 15 games with two starts. He signed with Georgia in February of 2000, soon after Matt Luke had taken over as offensive line coach.

Willock was dealing with a foot injury during his senior season of high school ball, slowing him considerably as he entered UGA. He spent the first two years getting his body in shape and turned a corner during 2022 spring and preseason camps.

Per his University of Georgia bio, Willock was a Risk Management and Insurance major.