University of Cincinnati running back Chamoda Kennedy-Palmore died in traffic accident on Thursday, September 25. He was only 19.
The accident occurred on Vine Street, north of the UC campus in Clifton Thursday afternoon. Chamoda Kennedy-Palmore was riding his motorcycle and wearing a protective helmet and equipment when he hit the side of a car attempting to turn across two lanes of traffic, according to reports.
Police told the Cincinnati Enquirer the driver of the other vehicle was in serious but stable condition Thursday night.
Chamoda Kennedy-Palmore was a 2013 graduate of Lakota East High School in Liberty Township. UC associate athletic director Ryan Koslen confirmed the Kennedy-Palmore was a member of the UC program last season as a walk-on and had recently rejoined the team after a tryout following the season opener against Toledo.
“Our football program and University has suffered another great tragedy,” head coach Tommy Tuberville said in a statement released by UC.
“I’m a father first and a coach second and it’s always hard to put your thoughts into words during times like these. Chamoda was a talented non-scholarship player and a key member of our scout teams. He worked hard and earned his spot on the roster. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
This is the second fatal accident involving one of UC players in just over one year .
Freshman offensive lineman Ben Flick was killed in a single car accident last year on September 21 while traveling back from the Bearcats’ win at Miami (Ohio). Wide receivers Mark Barr and Javon Harrison were also injured in the accident. They have been medically disqualified from playing but remain on scholarship at UC, said Ryan Koslen.
Chamoda Kennedy-Palmore rushed for 775 yards and five touchdowns in his senior season at Lakota East helping the Thunderhawks reach the OHSAA playoffs for the first time in school history. He had 204 yards from scrimmage as they won their first playoff game, 45-38, against Springboro.
Some of his teammates expressed their grief on Twitter on Thursday evening.
UC (2-0) plays at No. 20 Ohio State(2-1) on Saturday, September 27.
A moment of silence is planned prior to the game Saturday night.
