Freshman at Wingate University dies after being struck by train, officials say
Editor’s note: Wingate police provided an update on the investigation on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022. Read it here.
A freshman basketball player at Wingate University died after being struck by a train Tuesday night, officials said.
The eastbound train hit Kyle Honore at a crossing along North Camden Street just before 10:45 p.m., Wingate police Chief Craig Bradshaw said in a news release. Honore died of his injuries on the way to a hospital, Bradshaw said.
Honore had just moved to campus on Sunday, the school said in an email to The Charlotte Observer.
Wingate University is located in Union County about 30 miles southeast of Charlotte.
“It’s hard to reconcile the loss of Kyle Honore with the hopeful beginnings of a new academic year,” university President Dr. Rhett Brown said in a statement. “To Kyle’s family, teammates and friends, we grieve your loss and we pray for your care and well-being during this difficult time. At moments like these, we are reminded that life is both precious and fleeting. We can and should honor Kyle’s memory by doing all we can to look out for, and care for, each other.”
Honore showed “great promise” coming out of high school, according to Wingate assistant basketball coach Marcus Kirkland.
“Kyle was a big personality who could light up the room and make friends quickly,” Kirkland said in a statement.
Honore’s death remains under investigation, police said.
A May graduate of Potomac High School in Dumfries, Virginia, Honore played basketball for his father, Keith.
His three older brothers also played basketball for their father, and each wore the number 11, according to the Washington Post.
“On behalf of the boys basketball team and the entire Potomac community we send our deepest thoughts and prayers to Coach Honore, the Honore family, Kyle’s friends, and loved ones!” the Potomac basketball program said in a tweet. “Kyle will be sorely missed by all.”
Counseling services are available for Wingate students, the school said. Details about a campus vigil and funeral services will be announced once they are finalized, school officials said.
“We send our prayers, love and support to Kyle’s family, friends and loved ones,” Wingate athletics posted on social media.
This story was originally published August 17, 2022 at 3:17 PM.
