TALLAHASSEE, FL, (May 23, 2026) – A 17-year-old recent high school graduate and Tulane University football recruit tragically lost his life Saturday night in a single-vehicle crash in Tallahassee.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), Deontavis Cooper was a back-seat passenger in a southbound sedan traveling on Thomasville Road at approximately 10:55 p.m. when the vehicle veered onto the western shoulder.
Investigators said the sedan struck a culvert and became airborne before colliding with a utility pole and overturning on the shoulder.
Cooper, a graduate of Thomas County Central High School in Georgia, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The 18-year-old driver and another 18-year-old passenger suffered critical injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Known to friends and teammates as “Big Coop,” Cooper was remembered for his positive attitude, caring personality, and dedication both on and off the field.
Thomas County Central High School released a statement expressing condolences to Cooper’s family, friends, classmates, and teammates, while Tulane University praised his resilience, work ethic, and commitment to the game.
