New Mexico safety Markel Byrd died Tuesday afternoon in a single car accident near Gallup, New Mexico, according to a UNM press release.
As stated in the release, Byrd was driving home for the holidays with his girlfriend on I-40 when their car suffered a blowout. Both Byrd and his girlfriend were ejected from the vehicle and Byrd died instantly. The passenger was taken to a local hospital in critical condition.
“This is an absolute tragedy. Markel Byrd was an outstanding person and student-athlete and we will miss him,” head coach Bob Davie said in a statement “I was with the family late Tuesday night and obviously they are devastated. Our thoughts and prayers go to them. Markel will forever be a member of our family."
Byrd, who was born in San Diego, California, played an integral role at safety for the Lobos. He finished the 2015 season with 43 tackles and three interceptions, which tied for the team lead in picks.
Byrd was just 20 years old. Memorial service and funeral arrangements are pending.
Thomas Romero-Salas is the culture editor for the Daily Lobo. He can be reached at culture@dailylobo.com or on Twitter @ThomasRomeroS.
