Ball State DB Gavin Yates-Lyons passes at 18
Yates-Lyons, an incoming true freshman, succumbed to injuries from a shooting.
Ball State defensive back Gavin Yates-Lyons, who was set to join the Cardinals this fall for his true freshman campaign, has died at age 18 from fatal injury.
Ball State Athletics confirmed the news on Sunday, May 31.
We mourn the passing of Gavin Yates-Lyons.
— Ball State Football (@BallStateFB) May 31, 2026
We extend sincere condolences to his family, friends, coaches, teammates and all who held him close. May you find comfort and strength during this challenging moment. pic.twitter.com/nXiQP0ZM8c
On the morning of May 24, Yates-Lyons was one of three victims of a parking garage shooting in Tallahassee, Florida, per the Tallahassee Democrat. Yates-Lyons was transported to a nearby hospital with life-threatening injuries and officially passed Saturday, May 30.
Yates-Lyons graduated from Lowndes High School in Valdosta, Georgia the day prior to the tragic incident. He was already enrolled at Ball State University as of January, and participated in the Cardinals' spring football session.
According to WCTV, no arrests related to the shooting were made as of the morning of May 31.
Tallahassee authorities have asked anyone with potential leads regarding the shooting to call the police department at (850) 891-4200 or Crime Solvers at (850) 574-TIPS.
