Former James Madison Dukes defensive lineman Luke Warner has passed away in a car crash on Thursday, June 11, just a day before his 27th birthday. Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, he helped  Charlotte Christian to a pair of state titles during his high school career.

JMU football reporter Catie Harper reported the news on X on June 12.

James Madison Football also issued an official statement mourning the loss on X.

"We are deeply saddened to hear about the loss of former Duke Luke Warner," read the statement, "Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with his friends, family, and members of our program.”

A preliminary investigation concluded that a North Carolina Department of Transportation truck was stopped in the westbound lanes as the workers were busy removing a deer carcass, according to The Johnston County Report.

Warner slowed down his 2013 Nissan Versa when a 2026 Toyota RAV4 hit him from behind. The impact was high, and it pushed his car towards the truck, culminating in the fatal crash.

The Toyota RAV4 driver was charged for his actions. The Johnston County Report stated that the driver was charged with failure to reduce speed and misdemeanor leading to a fatal accident.

Warner did not appear in any games during his tenure at James Madison. Though during his high school days, he was a three-year starter and also wrestled.

His death deeply affected the football community, and fans poured in their tribute on social media.

Fans Pour In Their Love For Luke Warner

Although the 2019 redshirt freshman defensive lineman never appeared in a college game, his passing still resonated with fans for the positivity he carried with himself.

"Nothing but a positive and great person to everyone he encountered," his former James Madison teammate Jack Brigham commented.

Warner was part of the 2019 Dukes team that won the Colonial Athletic Association championship. They also reached the FCS National Championship game against North Dakota State.

Since his move away from football, he had settled in Raleigh, NC, and had just gotten married two months prior to his passing. Other than success as a player, he was greatly loved by his teammates because of his joyful nature.

"RIP Luke, need people who were friends with him and hung out with him a few times, overall a great guy," said another fan

Despite his limited on-field play, Warner touched many hearts because of his benevolent nature. Though he did find success as a player with two state championship teams (2014, 2017).

"So sad, always full of life. Rip Luke the duke," mourned another

Warner was a dual-sport athlete who also ranked fourth in the state at the 285 weight class in wrestling. He was also a recipient of the Charlotte Christian Lifer award.

Warner leaves behind a legacy that will forever be remembered and cherished by everyone who knew him. He is survived by his parents, John and Kay KC Warner, brother, Mitchell, and sister, Abigail. He also leaves behind his wife, Karina.

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Written by

Sourav Ganguly

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar