College football player, 20, killed after police chase leads to fatal car crash

Mississippi Valley State football player Ryan Quinney was killed in a car crash Friday evening while the vehicle he was in was reportedly trying to flee from police.

Quinney, 20, died Saturday on the eve of the Delta Devils’ final game against Jackson State University.

According to Yazoo County Coroner Ricky Shivers, via WAPTthe car he was in was trying to get away from the Mississippi Highway Patrol when the fatal crash occurred Friday evening.

The pursuit reportedly began in the Mississippi city of Flora and continued into Yazoo City, where the driver lost control of the car on Jerry Clower Boulevard north of 20th Street.

The car then left the road and hit a ditch before crashing into a parked vehicle and becoming airborne. After removing a light pole, it allegedly turned several times and eventually came to rest in a yard on Talbert Drive.

While the Jaws of Life were used to rescue the driver, Quinney was pronounced dead at the scene.

“We are heartbroken to share that our beloved student, Ryan Quinney, tragically died last night in a car accident,” Mississippi Valley State University said in a statement Saturday.

“Ryan was a bright light in our community with a spirit that lifted everyone around him. He will be greatly missed by his friends, teachers and all who knew him.

“During this difficult time, we extend our sincere condolences to Ryan’s family and loved ones. Please keep them, along with his friends and classmates, in your thoughts and prayers. Let us remember Ryan’s impact on our lives and honor his memory by supporting each other through this loss.

“Rest in peace, Ryan.”