The entire University of Pittsburgh football program is dealing with the tragic passing of freshman cornerback Mason Alexander.
Alexander, 18, was killed in a car crash in his hometown of Fishers, Indiana Saturday night. According to authorities, Alexander was the passenger in a 2016 BMW that tried to pass another vehicle and had to swerve to avoid a head-on collision with a car traveling in the opposite direction. The BMW wound up leaving the roadway and hitting a tree.
“I received a call this morning that no parent, teacher or coach ever wants to get—the news of the sudden loss of a young and promising life,” Pitt head coach Pat Narduzzi wrote in a statement. “Our entire program is shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Mason Alexander’s passing.”
“Mason was proud and excited to be a Panther, and we felt the same way about having him in our Pitt family,” Narduzzi added. “He will always be a Panther to us. The Alexander family and Mason’s many loved ones and friends will be in our prayers.”
— Pat Narduzzi (@CoachDuzzPittFB) March 2, 2025
Throughout the day, tributes have been pouring in for Alexander on social media.
“It’s hard to find the words to say right now. Mason lit up every room he was in. Brought joy and playfulness to everything and everyone. He could change the entire direction of your day with one interaction. Mason is the embodiment of exceptional. Rest Easy 15. Love forever,” said Peyton Daniels, a high school teammate of Alexander’s who plays football at Butler.
“So young. Absolute tragedy. Rest in Peace Mason Alexander,” added the Barstool Pitt account.
“Absolutely gutted to hear this tragic news. Mason Alexander was one of a handful of Pitt newcomers to be introduced to the media for a bit earlier this week. To me, he came across as a thoughtful, friendly and confident young man. RIP,” added Pittsburgh Tribune-Review sportswriter Justin Guerriero.
“Horrible news this morning. My prayers are with Mason Alexander’s family. #RIP,” chimed in 247Sports’ Bryan Ault.
“Don’t even know what to say. Mason was the best. Prayers to HSE, the football community, Pitt and most of all his family. Was hoping all night this wasn’t true,” wrote Kyle Neddenriep of the Indianapolis Star.
A four-star prospect out of Hamilton Southeastern High School, Alexander graduated in December and enrolled early at Pitt.
He was set to begin his first spring practice as a member of the program when tragedy struck.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Alexander’s family, friends and teammates during this time.
Related: Pat Narduzzi Speaks Out After Death Of Freshman Football Player