A South Carolina high school football player died last Saturday evening following an off-road vehicle accident in the western part of the state. Cruz Evatt Ellenburg, 16, a sophomore who played as a wide receiver and backup quarterback for Pickens High School, was killed when the utility terrain vehicle he was riding rolled over.

Authorities reported that Ellenburg was not restrained at the time of the accident. Details surrounding the circumstances of the crash have not been fully disclosed.

Ellenburg’s death has deeply affected the local community, with friends and teammates expressing their grief. His close friend, Daniel Cody, shared a tribute on social media, reflecting the impact Ellenburg had on those around him.

The incident has prompted conversations about off-road vehicle safety, especially among young drivers, amid concerns over the risks posed by operating such vehicles without proper restraints. No further information on the investigation or any related safety measures has been released.