A former college football player has tragically died after being struck by a vehicle in his hometown of Delano, California.
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Ivan Garza, 25, was hit while crossing the street during the early hours of Wednesday, July 8.
The collision occurred at around 4 a.m. local time, with authorities launching an investigation into the fatal incident.
College Football Star Dies After Being Hit by Vehicle
According to reports, the vehicle was traveling northbound when it struck Garza as he attempted to cross the road.
Police said the driver remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators.
The Delano Police Department has since opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
"Nobody knows such a big guy with such a big heart," Garza's aunt, Sonia, told KBAK. "He was a great mentor to everybody. He was a big guy, so everybody automatically looked up to him. And then when they saw that he was good, they looked up to him even more."
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help the family cover "unexpected funeral expenses and the financial challenges that come with such a devastating tragedy."
The fundraiser raised nearly $25,000 toward its $35,000 goal in less than 24 hours.
Former Teammates and School Pay Tribute
Garza played offensive line for the Sacramento State Hornets from 2021 through 2023.
After redshirting in 2019, his 2020 season was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
He went on to earn honorable mention All-Big Sky honors in 2023 after starting all 13 games for Sacramento State.
"We give our deepest condolences to Ivan's friends and family," the football team said in a statement. "He will be remembered as a wonderful teammate, player, and Hornet."
Former Sacramento State coach Cherokee Valeria described Garza as an "amazing young man" in a comment beneath the tribute.
Garza's alma mater, Robert F. Kennedy High School, also honored his legacy.
"He was a success story out of RFK and Delano as a whole," the school said. "He showed that big things can come from small places. His heart was as huge as his size. Rest easy young man, you are at peace."
During his time at the school, Garza helped lead the Thunderbirds to a Central Section Championship.
