Eastern Michigan Football Recruit Killed in Sitruck-Motorcycle Collision
The Eastern Michigan football community is in deep mourning following the tragic death of one of its recruits, Elijah Berman, who was struck by a semitruck while riding a motorcycle in Franklin, Ohio. Berman, who was just 17 years old, succumbed to his injuries after being severely injured in the accident that occurred on Tuesday evening.
According to officials, the accident involved a 2006 Suzuki DL1000 motorcycle that Berman was riding. He was struck by a semitruck driven by 41-year-old Anthony Allen of Roseville, Michigan. The collision happened around 5:12 p.m. in an intersection just off Interstate 75 north. The semitruck, which had been coming off a ramp, struck the motorcycle and then collided with a raised median divider before overturning. The incident is currently under investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Berman was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead due to his injuries. Allen, who was also involved in the crash, received treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. The details of the collision are still being unraveled, and it is unclear whether any traffic violations were involved.
News of Berman’s tragic passing has sent shockwaves through his hometown and the college football community. The Eastern Michigan head coach, Chris Creighton, expressed his condolences on social media, stating, ‘We are mourning the passing of Elijah Berman. Our thoughts and prayers are with his mother Heather, current teammates, family, and friends. Elijah was ultra talented, yet it was his big heart, infectious smile, and awesome personality that made us fall in love with him. RIP Elijah.’
Berman was a student at Julienne Catholic High School in Franklin, Ohio, where he played on the football and track teams. His high school has issued a statement on Facebook, praising his character, leadership, and future plans to attend Eastern Michigan University. ‘Eli knew what it meant to be an Eagle and made an impact anywhere and everywhere he went. He was a leader on the football field and track, an Eagle Ambassador, a big brother in our Little Sibs program, and a strong student with a big personality. He had just accepted an offer to chase his dreams and play college football at Eastern Michigan University,’ the high school said.
The tragedy has raised questions about road safety and the responsibilities of drivers in the area. While the investigation continues, the community remains united in grief and support for Berman’s family and those who knew him. His legacy will be remembered on and off the field, as he was known for his positive attitude and dedication to his passions.