Context:

William Hardrick, a 22-year-old college football player who played as a defensive back for Austin Peay University, tragically died in a car crash in Alabama. The accident occurred near Interstate 65, and John Walter McAdams, the driver of a semitractor-trailer involved in the crash, was charged with murder, DUI, and leaving the scene of an accident with injury. Hardrick's passing was mourned by the Austin Peay community, with athletics director Gerald Harrison and head coach Jeff Faris expressing their condolences and highlighting his positive impact both on and off the field. Hardrick's football journey included playing for Mississippi State and Miami (Ohio), and he was remembered as an exceptional young man. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is currently investigating the crash to determine further details regarding the incident.

Dive Deeper:

• William Hardrick, a defensive back for Austin Peay University, died in a car crash near Interstate 65 in Alabama at the age of 22. His passing was announced by the university and has deeply affected the Austin Peay community.

• The driver involved in the fatal crash, John Walter McAdams, was arrested and charged with murder, two counts of leaving the scene of an accident with injury, and driving under the influence. McAdams was reportedly driving a semitractor-trailer at the time of the accident.

• Austin Peay's athletics director, Gerald Harrison, expressed deep sadness over Hardrick's death, offering thoughts and prayers to his family and pledging support for his friends, family, and teammates during this difficult time.

• Head coach Jeff Faris described Hardrick as an exceptional young man who positively impacted everyone around him, both on and off the field. The team is heartbroken by his loss and is offering prayers and support to his family.

• Hardrick's football career included playing for Mississippi State and Miami (Ohio) before transferring to Austin Peay. He had accumulated 32 total tackles in 18 games for the Miami RedHawks, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport.

• The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is conducting an investigation into the crash to uncover more information and determine the circumstances that led to the tragic event.

• The community has come together to honor Hardrick's memory, recognizing his contributions and the positive influence he had on those around him during his time as a student-athlete.