UPDATE: Thomasville graduate killed, two hospitalized after Leon County crash
May 24, 2026
A teen has died and two others suffered critical injuries after a single-vehicle crash on Thomasville Road in Leon County Saturday night. That's according to the Florida Highway Patrol.Thomas County Central High School identifie
d the victim as Deontavis Jamario "Big Coop" Cooper, who played for the Yellow Jackets football team.Cooper was set to play football for Tulane later this year. The school praised his kindness and genuine spirit. They responded to his death online, saying:"In honoring Deontavis, let us remember him for his extraordinary spirit, his kindness, and the joy he brought to those around him. He remains forever a valued member of the Tulane community."TCCHS football coach Justin Rogers also remembered Cooper online saying:""While that dream was cut far too short, the impact he made on his teammates, coaches, teachers, friends, and family will last forever."A report from the FHP says the three teens were traveling in a sedan near Amber Valley Drive when the vehicle went onto the shoulder of the road and hit a culvert.The impact sent the vehicle airborne where it hit a utility pole and overturned, per the report.The patrol says a rear passenger, a 17-year-old, was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from the vehicle. He was pronounced dead on scene.The driver and the front passenger, two 18-year-olds, were transported to TMH with critical injuries.The crash briefly shut down an outside lane on Thomasville Road.The FHP has not released details about what may have caused the vehicle to veer off the road.Want to see more local news? Visit the WTXL ABC 27 Website.Stay in touch with us anywhere, anytime.Like us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram and X.
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