by A San Jose State University football running back was killed when he was struck by a school bus while riding an electric scooter, authorities said Friday.
The university identified the athlete as Camdan McWright, 18, of Los Angeles, a freshman. He played in one game, an Oct. 7 matchup against the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, according to team records.
“The loss of our student is heartbreaking and devastating to our San Jose State community,” university president Steve Perez said in a statement. “We are grieving for Camdan, his family, friends, teammates and the Spartan family.”
The Santa Clara County Medical Examiner’s office said it could not release any information until next of kin were notified of the death.
The California Highway Patrol, which is investigating the incident that occurred not far from campus, said McWright drove the scooter into the path of the San Jose Unified School District bus before 7 a.m. Friday and was struck.
The bus had a green light and “the driver was unable to stop in time,” CHP said in a statement.
The agency said alcohol or drugs did not appear to be a factor.
Fourteen students, ages 14 to 17, were on the bus and were picked up by another bus, CHP said.
“Our counselors are working with students who witnessed the accident and are available at all schools for anyone who needs to speak with someone,” San Jose ISD spokeswoman Jennifer Maddox said in a statement.
The university also said grief counselors would be available to students.
McWright was from the northern San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles and was a student at St. Genevieve High School, which is in the Panorama City neighborhood.
San Jose State has said the league’s two-time MVP is from Sylmar and nearby Panorama City. He also ran track and was champion in the 100 and 200 meters in the local league, he said.
McWright planned to major in communication studies and become a television sports analyst.
“We lost a very bright and talented young man far too soon,” San Jose State athletic director Jeff Konya said in the school’s statement.
eric mendoza contributed.
