NEED TO KNOW
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Virginia college student dies after car crash
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Speaking to PEOPLE, a spokesperson for the Radford University baseball team identified the deceased as Joey Raccuia.
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The athlete was a middle infielder and right-handed pitcher at the time of his death.
A Virginia college freshman has died after being involved in a fatal car crash this week.
On Thursday, February 26, the Radford University baseball team confirmed via social media that player Joey Raccuia was murdered. He was 19 years old.
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“We are heartbroken to share the news of Joey Raccuia’s passing. Joey’s impact on our team, this community, and all the lives he touched went far beyond the playing field, and he is deeply missed,” an Instagram post read.
A school spokesperson also confirmed his death to PEOPLE.
PEOPLE could not immediately reach the Radford Police Department for comment.
Joey Racuia
Credit: Radford Athletics
The middle infielder and right-handed pitcher was the son of former Radford University head baseball coach Joe Raccuia. Roanoke Times reported.
According to the news outlet, the fatal single-vehicle incident took place on Wednesday, February 25 at approximately 11:20 a.m. on East Main Street, not far from the Radford baseball stadium.
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Although first responders provided medical support, Raccuia was pronounced dead at the scene, the outlet added.
Before attending Radford University, Raccuia was a student at PDG Academy during high school, according to his athletic profile on the university’s website.
He appeared in two of Radford’s first seven games, starting one, Penn Live Patriot-News reported.
Joey Racuia
Credit: Radford Athletics
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The cause of the accident remains under investigation. No additional details were released. However, anyone with information about the fatal collision is asked to call Capt. JL Slaughter at 540-267-3711, according to Roanoke Times.
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The Radford University baseball team’s next game is scheduled for Friday, February 27 against the Bryant University Bulldogs.
Read the original article on People