Philip Lutzenkirchen, a beloved former Auburn tight end, reportedly died in a car crash on Sunday morning.
Lutzenkirchen was known for his clutch catches and his touchdown dances that resembled a river dancing, which got national acclaim during Auburn’s stunning come-from-behind win in the 2010 Iron Bowl at Alabama. He was one of the most beloved and popular players in recent memory at Auburn.
“On the field, Philip was a great player and competitor, but more importantly, he was a great teammate and friend off the field,” Auburn coach Gus Malzahn said in a statement. “My thoughts and prayers are with Philip’s parents, Mike and Mary, and all of his family and friends who are grieving his passing. This is a sad day for the entire Auburn family. I find peace knowing that even though Philip was taken from us too soon, that he lived his life to the fullest, leaving a lifetime of great memories for his family and friends to cherish forever.”
According to CBS News, the officer on the scene reportedly said the “a 2006 Chevy Tahoe missed a stop sign at a ‘t-intersection’ before traveling off the intersection and into a churchyard. The car was ‘out of control for about 450 feet’ before it overturned, ejecting all four passengers from the vehicle.’
According to CBS News, Lutzenkirchen, who was 23, “was killed at the scene, as was the car’s driver, Joseph Davis.”
The news was first reported by Auburn Undercover.