Ball State Freshman Gavin Yates-Lyons Dead Sunday at 18

The college football world is mourning the loss of an 18-year-old freshman on Sunday morning, May 31.

Ball State confirmed that freshman defensive back Gavin Yates-Lyons has died. Yates-Lyons was shot in a parking garage shooting on May 24 in Tallahassee, Florida. He was one of three victims caught in the crossfire.

The college football freshman is a Florida native. He played in high school at Lowndes County High School in Georgia and enrolled at Ball State in January.

Yates-Lyons had returned to the Southeast for his high school graduation.

Ball State released a statement on his death on Sunday.

Program releases statement on his death on Sunday

Ball State is extremely saddened.

"Ball State Athletics and the Ball State football program mourn the passing of Gavin Yates-Lyons. 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," the school said.

May he rest in peace.

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This story was originally published May 31, 2026 at 11:12 AM.