An 18-year-old Saint Francis University football player was found dead in his dorm room at Giles Hall in Loretto, Pennsylvania, on Monday, November 4, 2024, according to campus officials.
Kevon Walker, a freshman defensive lineman from Buffalo, New York, was discovered unresponsive in his bed by teammates, according to Cambria County Chief Deputy Coroner Joseph Hribar. Authorities reported no evidence of foul play.
Walker’s teammates informed law enforcement that he had been “feeling ill” in the days leading up to his death, though Hribar noted the coroner’s office could not comment on whether this was related to his passing.
The Pennsylvania State Police and Cambria County Coroner’s Office are investigating Walker’s death. Officials are awaiting toxicology and pathology reports to determine the cause and manner of death.
Saint Francis University Athletics expressed their grief, stating that “although his time at the university was short, he had a positive impact on the football program, was well-liked and respected among the team, and showed the promise of a very bright future with the Red Flash.”
The university, located approximately 80 miles east of Pittsburgh, canceled classes on Tuesday to allow students and staff to process the news. Counseling services were made available to those affected by Walker’s death.
His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from his family, friends, and former coaches and teammates. Paul R. Woods Sr., Walker’s former football coach at Canisius High School in Buffalo, expressed his sorrow on X, sharing how deeply the news affected him. He urged others to keep Walker’s family and the Canisius High School community in their thoughts and prayers, posting “R.I.P Kevon Walker..Love you kid” alongside a photo of Walker.
At Canisius High School, he was remembered as having a “larger-than-life presence.” During his brief college career, Walker had recorded two tackles across three games for the Red Flash.
The Saint Francis Red Flash football team (3-6) has a bye week and will resume their season with away games at Long Island and Mercyhurst starting November 16.
