A Michigan State University hockey player has died following a fatal car crash in Virginia.
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Local reports state that student-athlete Preston J. Korytkowski, 22, died following the collision at around 3:40 a.m. on Saturday, August 15.
Korytkowski was driving a Honda CR-V when the vehicle collided with a tractor-trailer on Interstate 95 in Caroline County.
Michigan State Hockey Player Dies in Virginia Crash
Virginia State Police said the tractor-trailer had become disabled before its driver pulled over to the side of the northbound lanes of I-95.
Korytkowski's vehicle subsequently struck the tractor-trailer. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
The driver of the tractor-trailer reportedly sustained minor injuries in the crash.
News of Korytkowski's death quickly reached the Michigan State hockey community, with his team announcing the devastating loss on social media.
"Posting this with a heavy heart," the Michigan State Spartans shared in a post. "Our teammate, friend and Captain Preston sadly passed away last evening."
Friends, teammates and others who knew Korytkowski flooded the comments with tributes to the 22-year-old.
"Praying for all his teammates and loved ones," one of the comments read. "One of the nicest guys"
Another added, "The best human. I love you forever and ever Preston!"
Tributes Pour In for Preston Korytkowski
Members of the Michigan State team and coaching staff also paid tribute to Korytkowski, who was known by the nickname "Hands."
"Had the honor of coaching Preston in high school. Amazing person. Keeping him and his family in my prayers," said coach Corbin Rainey.
Meanwhile, teammate Ryan Griffin wrote, "The best person you could ask for in your life. Love you, buddy"
Korytkowski played four seasons for the Michigan State Spartans' Division II hockey team in the American Collegiate Hockey Association.
The left winger appeared in 103 games during his collegiate career, recording 10 goals and 12 assists for a total of 22 points.
His achievements extended well beyond the ice.
Korytkowski maintained a 4.0 GPA while studying at Michigan State University and was involved in research surrounding virtual reality and human-AI multimodal interaction.
