Former Sacramento State lineman Ivan Garza dies at 25

A former Sacramento State University football player died this week after being struck by a vehicle in his hometown of Delano, California. Ivan Garza, a 25-year-old offensive lineman who played for the Hornets from 2021 through 2023, succumbed to his injuries following the early morning collision on July 8.

According to the Delano Police Department, officers responded to reports of a vehicle striking a pedestrian on Glenwood Street shortly after 4 a.m. Investigators stated Garza was crossing the street when he was hit by a northbound vehicle. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with authorities as the investigation continues. A GoFundMe campaign organized by his family described the incident as a hit-and-run, though police confirmed the driver stayed at the scene.

Garza, a Delano native and graduate of Robert F. Kennedy High School, was remembered by his family as a "gentle giant with a kind heart, an infectious smile, and a genuine love for his family, friends, teammates, and everyone fortunate enough to know him." His aunt, Sonia Garza, said he was a great mentor to everybody and a big guy with an even bigger heart.

On the field, Garza was a standout. He helped...