The 17-year-old victim who died in a tragic graduation day car crash in northeast Tallahassee had a bright future on the football field.
School officials identified the deceased as Deontavis Jamario Cooper, a 2026 graduate of Thomas County Central High School.
Known as “Big Coop,” Cooper was “one of those rare young men who could light up a room with his smile and make everyone around him feel valued,” according to his football coach Justin Rogers.
“We were so excited to watch him begin the next chapter of his life at Tulane next week and continue pursuing his dream of playing college football,” Rogers wrote on Facebook alongside a photo of Cooper in graduation cap and gown. “While that dream was cut far too short, the impact he made on his teammates, coaches, teachers, friends, and family will last forever.”
“Forever a Yellow Jacket. Forever family.”
Cooper, who was set to begin his college football career at Tulane this week, was killed and two others were critically injured in a late-night crash Saturday on Thomasville Road near Chiles High School, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The single-vehicle crash happened around 10:55 p.m. when his sedan traveling southbound veered onto the western shoulder, struck a culvert and became airborne. The vehicle then hit a utility pole and overturned before coming to rest on the shoulder.
The driver and driver’s side passenger were rushed to the hospital and are in critical condition, but Cooper, who was in the back seat, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The school, which hosted its graduation ceremony earlier in the day, wrote that the community was in mourning with “heavy hearts.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, and the many friends, classmates, teammates, and others who are grieving during this difficult time.”
Tulane officials also marked his passing in a lengthy statement.
“As an incoming member of the Green Wave, Deontavis exemplified dedication, resilience, and a positive outlook,” the college in New Orleans wrote. “His love for the game and his unwavering work ethic showed in everything he did, and he was on the path to making a significant impact both on the field and within the community.”
“Deontavis was admired not only for his athletic ability but also for his kindness and genuine spirit. His bright personality and warm heart touched many, and his absence leaves a profound void in our hearts. In honoring Deontavis, let us remember him for his extraordinary spirit, his kindness, and the joy he brought to those around him.”
