Tragedy struck at the University of Southern California just days before students were set to begin class. Matthew Olson, who was an incoming freshman business student, was killed in a tragic accident on Saturday, August 23, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The California Highway Patrol said that the 18-year-old was walking between two FasTrak lanes on the freeway when he was struck by two cars around 2:45 a.m. The first car struck Olson before he fell into another lane where the second vehicle hit him.
The second driver did not stop, but the first driver came to Olson’s aid.
Unfortunately, when paramedics arrived, Olson was declared dead at the scene.
“Our heartfelt condolences are with Matt’s parents, family and friends as they mourn this terrible loss,” USC said in a statement.
Prior to enrolling at USC, Olson was a standout at Corona del Mar High School in Newport Beach, California where he was a member of the basketball and volleyball teams.
“This is an unbelievably tragic situation that the family and our community is faced with,” Corona del Mar Principal Kathy Scott said in a statement. “We understand that a loss like this can be traumatic and that everyone grieves differently. We have supports and resources available to staff and students who may be affected by this tragedy.”
The Southern California Volleyball Association posted a tribute video to Olson (posted above) on Facebook along with statements from Olson’s coaches.
“Matt Olson was the heart and soul of the team. It is impossible to measure the impact he had on his teammates,” said Matt Marrujo. “He was an incredible young man that lived his life to fullest. Matt was the type of player that made me a better coach and person.”
Andy Read added: “Matt was the consummate team player and a great competitor. He would do anything to help his team be successful and win. He made everyone around him a better. But even more important was the quality of young man he was and the life he lived.”
Move-in day at USC is Wednesday, August 28.
Our deepest condolences go out to Olson’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult and tragic time.