Update: The Associated Press reported that Collins was exiting Briley Parkway West when he lost control of his pickup truck.
Following the accident, first responders transported Collins to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced dead. Police say there were no signs of impairment at the scene, according to the Associated Press.
Previously:
CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Austin Peay State University announced that freshmen football player Jeremiah Collins passed away on Friday night.
“We are all devastated and heartbroken by the loss of Jeremiah Collins,” said head football coach Scotty Walden in a news release. “Jeremiah was an outstanding young man who brought an incredible attitude and energy every day. We grieve with the Collins family for their tragic loss and lift them up in prayer.”
“All of our thoughts and prayers are with the Collins Family today,” said APSU Vice President and Director of Athletics Gerald Harrison. “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Jeremiah, and we will do everything we can to support his friends, family, and teammates at this time.”
Collins played multiple positions throughout his high school football career, including defensive back, wide receiver and kick returner. However, he was slated to play defensive back for the Govs this fall.
Collins was a Louisville, Kentucky native that graduated from Oakland High School in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. According to APSU Athletics, he played a key role in Oakland High winning the 2022 TSSAA 6A State Championship.
Austin Peay provided no further information for the time being as they look to “help the Collins Family and Jeremiah’s teammates throughout this grieving process.”