Family, friends, teammates, and fans are mourning the lives lost in the tragic car crash that claimed the lives of six people in downtown Houston. Among the victims were three former University of Houston football players – D.J. Hayden, Zach McMillian, and Ralph Oragwu. The community is devastated by this loss. ABC13 Staff reported
Family, friends, teammates, and fans are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of six lives in a devastating car crash that occurred in downtown Houston on November 11th. The victims included three former University of Houston football players, namely D.J. Hayden, Zach McMillian, and Ralph Oragwu. The incident took place around 2 am when their SUV was struck by a speeding driver who ran a red light. This reckless act resulted in the deaths of two others, while two more individuals are currently hospitalized.
The bond between Hayden, McMillian, and Oragwu extended beyond their time at the University of Houston. Having grown up in Fort Bend County, they remained close friends even after graduating. The communities they hailed from are also grieving the loss of these exceptional individuals. Hayden attended Elkins High School in Missouri City, McMillian graduated from Dulles High School in Sugar Land, and Oragwu was an alumnus of Marshall High School in Missouri City.
The University of Houston paid tribute to these three alumni during their homecoming game against the University of Cincinnati. A moment of silence was observed, and their photos were displayed on the video boards, evoking a sense of profound remembrance. The school’s athletics department released a statement expressing their condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the deceased. They acknowledged the indelible impact that Hayden, McMillian, and Oragwu had on the lives they touched.
Hayden’s journey was particularly remarkable as he had previously survived a life-threatening tear in his heart during a UH practice in 2012. Despite this setback, he went on to be selected as the 12th overall pick in the 2013 NFL draft by the then-Oakland Raiders. After his NFL career concluded in 2021, Hayden returned to the sidelines as a volunteer defensive backs coach at Second Baptist School. His motivation was to give back and inspire young student-athletes.
These three individuals not only showcased their immense talent on the football field but also left a lasting impact through their love for their teammates and support for their communities. Their legacies will be remembered for their resilience and ability to defy the odds. Former teammates and colleagues spoke highly of their vibrant personalities and selflessness. Demetrius Woods described Hayden as a funny and lighthearted person, while McMillian was admired for his leadership qualities. Oragwu was affectionately referred to as a “teddy bear,” embodying warmth and kindness. Ted Pardee, the University of Houston football color analyst, emphasized the importance of their examples and the need for more individuals like them.
All three players spent significant time with the University of Houston football program between 2009 and 2013. Additionally, Jeffrey Lewis, who was also involved in the tragic crash, was part of the Coogs football program during this period.
This article, originally published by Rosie Nguyen and Adam Winkler on ABC13, highlights the profound loss experienced by the community and the incredible impact these individuals had on the lives of those around them..