Police: Syracuse Men's Basketball Coach Jim Boeheim Hits, Kills Man Walking On I-690
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Syracuse men's basketball coach Jim Boeheim struck and killed a man walking on an interstate late Wednesday night as he tried to avoid hitting the man's disabled vehicle, police said.
Syracuse police said 51-year-old Jorge Jimenez had been in a car with three others before midnight Wednesday when their vehicle crashed into a guardrail on I-690 in Syracuse.
"I am heartbroken that a member of our community died as the result of last night's accident. Juli and I extend our deepest sympathies to the Jimenez family. Out of respect for those involved, I will not be providing further comment at this time," Boeheim said in a statement.
Boeheim struck Jimenez while trying to avoid the vehicle. Jimenez was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.
Boeheim, 74, is cooperating with the investigation.
"He stopped immediately and exited the vehicle," said Syracuse Sgt. Matthew Malinowski.
MORE: 5 Facts About Syracuse Coach Jim Boeheim
Police said sobriety tests were administered to Boeheim and were negative for any signs of impairment -- friends and family reportedly said he doesn't drink. No tickets have been issued to Boeheim at this time and the investigation is continuing.
A freezing rain had fallen earlier Wednesday night, though it is unclear if the weather had anything to do with the crash.
"We are saddened by the death of a member of our Central New York community," Syracuse athletic director John Wildhack said in a statement. "On behalf of Chancellor Kent Syverud and the entire Syracuse University community, we extend our deepest condolences to all impacted by this tragic accident."
Boeheim has coached at Syracuse for 43 years, winning a national title in 2003 and making five Final Four appearances. His team defeated Louisville 69-49 Wednesday night during a home game.
(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
