Austin Peay football player killed in tragic car accident
- William Hardrick, a talented 22-year-old defensive back, died in a car crash in Alabama on May 7, 2025.
- The crash involved Hardrick's vehicle and a semitractor-trailer driven by John Walter McAdams, who has been charged with murder.
- Austin Peay mourns the loss of Hardrick, an exceptional player who greatly impacted his team and community.
In a tragic incident that occurred in Alabama, William Hardrick, a 22-year-old defensive back for Austin Peay University's football team, died following a car crash. The accident took place near Interstate 65, where Hardrick’s vehicle was struck by a semitractor-trailer driven by John Walter McAdams. The authorities have confirmed that McAdams has been charged with murder and multiple counts related to the accident, including leaving the scene of an accident with injury and DUI. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Before transferring to Austin Peay, Hardrick was a promising player with a background that included stints at both Mississippi State and Miami (Ohio) universities. Hardrick demonstrated his skills on the field as he played a total of 18 games in his college football career, amassing 32 total tackles during his time with the Miami RedHawks. He had made a positive impact not only within his football teams but also among his peers and the community. His previous coaches and teammates admired him for his dedication and leadership abilities. The announcement of his tragic passing was made by Austin Peay University on May 7, 2025, prompting an outpouring of grief from the football community and the university's administration. Austin Peay's athletics director, Gerald Harrison, expressed his deepest condolences to the Hardrick family and the entire team, emphasizing the significant loss experienced by the close-knit Austin Peay family. Head coach Jeff Faris further highlighted Hardrick's exceptional character and the indelible mark he left on those around him. This devastating incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers associated with road travel and the impact of impaired driving. The community is left to mourn the loss of a young athlete with so much potential and promise ahead of him. As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting Hardrick’s family and honoring his memory in the days to come.