Gavin Yates-Lyons had just graduated from high school and had his whole future mapped out. A college football career at Ball State was waiting for him. But he never got to play.

Yates-Lyons, 18, died on May 30 after being s*** in a Tallahassee, Florida, parking garage. He had been in the area to attend his graduation ceremony at Lowndes County High School in Georgia the day before.

His high school coach, Tremaine Hughes, spoke to Florida's WCTV about what the loss meant to everyone who knew him.

"He was a child of God, smart, competitive, loved his family, loved his friends, a giving person," Hughes told WCTV. "He is about to leave, and for that to happen, it is heartbreaking. It is devastating, and the only thing that can really get you through a moment like that is family."

He was caught in the crossfire. There were two other victims, but they survived. Gavin was taken to the hospital in critical condition and passed away six days later.

"This is for us, the true definition of what family looks like," Hughes added. "He was a person who connected a lot of people, so everyone is still trying to process the loss."

Ball State confirmed his passing on May 31 and extended condolences to everyone who knew him. The program's chief of staff, Pete Roley, also spoke on behalf of the football family.

"Gavin was an extraordinary person, and it is difficult to express the grief we all feel," Roley said. "Our hearts are with his family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time."

Gavin was committed to Ball State University and had spent the Spring 2026 semester there. He was set to play football in the fall with the program.

How Gavin's Final Act Left a Lasting Mark Beyond Football

Before he passed, Gavin decided to be an organ donor. Lowndes head coach Adam Carter confirmed that an honor walk was held for him on Saturday, May 30.

An honor walk is a solemn ceremony where hospital staff and loved ones line the hallways to pay their final respects as a donor is brought to surgery.

A GoFundMe set up for his family describes Gavin as someone with a "kind heart and deep love for his family and friends." Those who loved him are still finding ways to hold on to that.

No suspects have been arrested, and authorities have not confirmed any updates. The Tallahassee Police Department continues to investigate the open case.

Read more at the Michigan Football Community.

Written by

Farheen Fathima

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore