by NFL top prospect Jalen Carter has warrants out for a street race that killed a teammate and University of Georgia staffer last month.
Athens-Clarke County police allege that on Jan. 15, the soccer star drove his 2021 Jeep Trackhawk into the 2021 Ford Expedition being driven by recruiter Chandler LeCroy, 24.
Devin Willock, an offensive lineman for the Bulldogs, and LeCroy were killed in what police initially described as a single vehicle accident.
Who is Jalen Carter?
Carter, a 21-year-old defensive tackle, is the number one pick in the upcoming NFL draft according to ESPN’s Mel Kuiper and is currently in the NFL Combine in Indianapolis.
The 6-foot-3 soccer star, who weighs 310 pounds, joined the University of Georgia team in 2020 after playing high school ball in Apopka, Fla.
Since joining the Bulldogs, he has helped the team win two national championships.
Why was he arrested?
Athens-Clarke County police allege that on Jan. 15, the soccer star drove his 2021 Jeep Trackhawk into the 2021 Ford Expedition being driven by recruiter Chandler LeCroy, 24.
Devin Willock, an offensive lineman for the Bulldogs, and LeCroy were killed in what police initially described as a single vehicle accident.
The law enforcement action came after that The Constitution of the Atlanta Journal reported that Carter was also at the scene of the accident and allegedly told police a rotating story about what happened.
The crash came just hours after the team celebrated winning back-to-back national championships with a parade in Athens and a ceremony at the university’s Sanford Stadium.
According to the police, what happened on January 15?
Police said in a statement Wednesday that evidence in the case showed Carter and LeCroy “operated their vehicles in a manner consistent with racing” before the accident occurred.
“The evidence showed that both vehicles were changing lanes, traveling in the center turn lane, traveling in opposite lanes, passing other motorists and traveling at high speeds in an apparent attempt to overtake each other,” the statement said called police.
Investigators claim that “alcohol impairment, racing, reckless driving and speed were significant factors in the accident.”
Toxicology reports state that LeCroy’s blood alcohol concentration was 0.197, more than double the legal limit for driving in Georgia. Police say the university SUV she was driving was traveling at 104 miles per hour prior to the accident.
Carter reportedly left the scene of the accident before officers arrived, only to return a few hours later when he denied the race to a police officer who saw no signs he had been drinking The Constitution of the Atlanta Journal.
Reckless driving and racing are both Georgia offenses.
Georgia coach Kirby Smart responds to allegations against players
“The charges announced today are deeply concerning as we continue to grapple with the devastating loss of two beloved members of our community,” Georgia coach Kirby Smart said in a statement.
“We will continue to work fully with the authorities, supporting these families and examining what we can learn from this terrible tragedy.”
Carter no longer appears on NFL Combine
Carter was at the annual pre-draft NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis when the indictment was announced.
“As far as I know, Mr. Carter is making arrangements to turn himself in,” said Lt. Shaun Barnett of the Athens-Clarke County Police Department told The Associated Press.
Carter responds to allegations on Twitter
“This morning I received a phone call from the Athens Georgia Police Department informing me that two warrants have been issued for my arrest for reckless driving and racing.” he tweeted.
“There are numerous media reports circulating this morning with false information about the tragic events of January 15, 2023.
“I intend to return to Athens to respond to the misdemeanor charges against me and to ensure that the full and accurate truth is presented.
“There is no question in my mind that when all the facts are known, I will be fully cleared of any criminal wrongdoing.”
