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UGA player who declared for 2023 NFL draft injured in crash that killed teammate, staffer

ATHENS, Ga. — Channel 2 Action News has learned one of the surviving victims in the crashed that killed a UGA football player and staff member, declared for the 2023 NFL draft less than 12 hours before the crash.

On Sunday, Athens-Clarke police confirmed the victims as 20-year-old Devin Willock, an offensive lineman for the Bulldogs, and 24-year-old Chandler LeCroy, a recruiting staff member.

Two other members of the football program, three year offensive tackle Warren McClendon, 21, and Victoria Bowles, 26, were injured but are currently stable. According to Bowles’ Twitter account, she worked on the recruiting staff.

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McClendon, a three year starter and sports management major from Brunswick, Georgia, declared for the 2023 NFL draft on Saturday, shortly after the parade and ceremony celebrating the back-to-back national championship.

“I never could have imagined how big of an impact the University of Georgia would have on me through the people I have met and the memories I have made,” McClendon said.

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Officers received reports of a single-car crash at 2:45 a.m. on Barnett Shoals Road. According to the investigation, a 2021 Ford Expedition was driving south in the outside lane when it left the roadway.

The car then hit two power poles and several trees.

Police said LeCroy was the driver and Willock was in the backseat directly behind LeCroy. Police told Channel 2 Action News LeCroy died at the hospital and Willock died at the scene.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Channel 2 Action News received the following statement from UGA.

“The entire Georgia family is devastated by the tragic loss of football student-athlete Devin Willock and football staff member Chandler LeCroy. Two other members of the football program were injured in the accident. They are both in stable condition, and we will continue to monitor their status with medical personnel.

“Devin and Chandler were two special people who meant so much to the University of Georgia, our football program and our athletic department. We ask that everyone keep their families in your prayers during this very difficult time.

“The UGA Athletic Association will work with our medical team as well as our mental health and performance personnel to make sure we are providing the best support possible for our staff and student-athletes who are processing this grief. We can provide no further comment at this time but ask that everyone continue to keep those involved in your prayers.”

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