Jim Boeheim’s Car Fatally Strikes Man on Interstate
Last night on interstate 690, Syracuse men’s basketball head coach Jim Boeheim’s car struck a pedestrian. 51-year-old Jorge Jimenez was involved in a prior accident on the highway and exited his vehicle. The vehicle, in which he was a passenger, struck a guard rail ended up in the middle of the highway which caused the passengers to exit. Boeheim attempted to swerve around the vehicle and ended up striking Jimenez shortly after 11pm according to police. Jimenez was taken to the hospital and subsequently pronounced dead there according to police.
Both Jim Boeheim and the other driver, who’s vehicle was in the middle of the highway, both passed field sobriety tests. Police say that weather played a factor in the original accident that cause the car to end up in the middle of the highway. And according to Onondaga County District Attorney Bill Fitzpatrick, Boeheim was traveling at an appropriate speed for the highway.
Jim Boeheim released this statement regarding the incident.
“I am heartbroken that a member of our community died as the result of last night’s accident,” he said. “(Boeheim’s wife) Juli and I extend our deepest sympathies to the Jimenez family. Out of respect for those involved, I will not be providing further comment at this time.”
Furthermore, Onondaga County District Attorney Bill Fitzpatrick, Boeheim spoke with ESPN and said,
“It’s just a terrible, unfortunate accident,” … “We don’t yet know [exactly] what caused the initial accident. Coach Boeheim was not involved in that accident. The occupants of the vehicle, including the deceased, were wandering in the road.”
And Syracuse director of athletics John Wildhack said
“We are saddened by the death of a member of our Central New York community,” … “On behalf of Chancellor Kent Syverud and the entire Syracuse University community, we extend our deepest condolences to all impacted by this tragic accident. Coach Boeheim is in contact with local authorities and cooperating fully. Out of respect for those grieving, there will be no further comment at this time. “
Syracuse defeated 18th ranked Louisville 69-49 last night and coach Boeheim went out to dinner with his wife to celebrate. The investigation is still on going but as of right now, no citations have been issued to either driver.