Syracuse coaching legend Jim Boeheim struck and killed a 51-year-old man with his car on Wednesday just before midnight, police said.
Jorge Jimenez got out of his car after an accident on Interstate 690 in Syracuse, police said, when Boeheim drove by and hit Jimenez. Jimenez was taken to Upstate University Hospital, police said, where he was pronounced dead.
The 74-year-old Boeheim, who is cooperating with authorities, reported the accident to police. Police said Boeheim passed a sobriety test.
“I am heartbroken that a member of our community died as the result of last night’s accident,” Boeheim said in a statement. “Out of respect for those involved, I will not be providing further comment at this time.”
Adam Weitsman, a businessman, Orange super-fan and close friend of Boeheim’s, spoke with him Thursday morning.
“He’s devastated,” Weitsman told WTHV in Syracuse. “He says the man was in the middle of the road, not along the side or anything like that.”
Syracuse had just beaten No. 18 Louisville, 69-49, Wednesday night at the Carrier Dome.
“We are saddened by the death of a member of our Central New York community,” athletic director John Wildhack said in a statement. “On behalf of Chancellor Kent Syverud and the entire Syracuse University community, we extend our deepest condolences to all impacted by this tragic accident.
“Coach Boeheim is in contact with local authorities and cooperating fully.”