The NCAA gold medalist was on his way home when a tractor-trailer struck his car, which came to a stop because of a flat tire, and knocked the car into Torrin.
- Jul 29, 2014
AceShowbiz - Torrin Lawrence, one of the best sprinters in the country, has passed away. The 25-year-old died Monday morning, July 28 in a car accident after his car was struck by a tractor-trailer, officials confirm.
The University of Georgia graduate was on his way home to Jacksonville, Florida after training in Athens. He was traveling along Interstate 75 about 1:40 A.M. when a tire blew out and his car came to a stop.
Lawrence got out of the car and made a call seeking for help when a big rig struck his car, knocking the vehicle into him. Lawrence died in the wreck. The accident happened about 90 miles from the Georgia-Florida state line.
Lawrence won a gold medal with the U.S. in the 4x400 relay at the IAAF World Relays in Nassau, Bahamas two months ago. USA Track and Field CEO Max Siegel says in a statement upon learning of the sad news, "We were devastated to learn of Torrin's passing early this morning. Torrin represented USATF with pride and passion, and had an incredible future ahead of him. We join those who will miss him deeply."
Bulldogs head track coach Wayne Norton states on the school's website, "In speaking for the UGA track and field community, I am shocked and pained with news of Torrin's death. First, my prayers for comfort are for Torrin's mother and family. Second, this makes me reflect on Torrin and remember him as one of the greatest talents I have ever seen."
Some Olympic track athletes also mourn the death of Lawrence. Sprinter Allyson Felix took to Twitter to express her condolences, "Sad to hear about the passing of Torrin Lawrence. My prayers go out to his family & friends. We lost a talented member of our track family."
Sprinter Wallace Spearmon wrote, "R.I.P Torrin Lawrence prayers up for him and his family. Definitely tragic, cherish life," and hurdler David Oliver tweeted, "Thoughts and prayers go out to friends and family of 400m runner Torrin Lawrence. R.I.P."
Lawrence was represented by Claude Bryan, whose company has posted on its website, "Torrin exuded the type of dignity, deportment and care for others not readily seen in today's youths. Extending our condolences to the family ... A person that departs from this earth never truly leaves, for they are still alive in our hearts and minds; through us, they live on. Torrin will not be forgotten. R.I.P. Torrin Lawrence!"
