It’s a heartbreaking day for the LSU athletics community as they mourn the loss of one of their most promising young athletes. Dillon Reidenauer, an 18-year-old freshman and LSU track and field standout pole vaulter, tragically lost her life in a car accident near the LSU campus. It became a piece of shocking news for her family, friends, and everyone close to her.
She was a young woman described by those close to her as “sweet and kind.” Shocked and heartbroken by the incident, the coach expressed his grief by sharing a heartbreaking message.
Authorities confirmed Reidenauer was involved in a fatal crash at the intersection of Nicholson Drive and South Quad Drive. The crash happened around 9:07 pm when the car’s driver headed south on Nicholson Drive. The driver attempted to make a left turn onto South Quad Drive. During this moment, a motorcyclist, heading north to Nicholson Drive, rammed into the car.
The cops identified the motorcyclist killed as Bohdi Linton, 23. They then identified LSU track and field freshman student-athlete Dillon Reidenauer as the other victim in the crash. LSU track and field coach Dennis Shaver expressed the profound grief felt by the team and the wider LSU community.
“We are devastated by the tragic passing of Dillon Reidenauer, who was taken from us much too soon,” Shaver said. Reidenauer was a member of LSU’s track and field team. Many considered her one of Louisiana’s top pole vaulters. Sadly, a life was taken away too soon.
She had an impressive high school career at Fontainebleau High School. The athlete finished second in the 2024 LHSAA State 5A Championships with a clearance of 3.64 meters. “Everyone in our LSU Track & Field family is keeping Dillon’s loved ones in our thoughts and prayers, as well as those of the other individual lost in the incident,” he further added.
As a junior, she placed fourth at the state meet, solidifying her reputation as a top-tier competitor in her sport.
In addition to her athletic talents, she took her education seriously. Reidenauer was pursuing a degree in interior design at LSU, a testament to her aspirations beyond the track. The LSU athletics department confirmed her academic pursuits, highlighting her well-rounded dedication to both sports and studies.
Reidenauer, a native of Abita Springs, Louisiana, leaves an everlasting legacy of excellence in athletics. She had a deep impact on those who knew her as well. Sadly, a bright future was tragically cut short.
Dillon Reidenauer’s journey from Fountainbleau to LSU track and field
Fontainebleau High School’s spring signing class featured nine athletes continuing their athletic careers. It also included standout pole vaulter, Dillon Reidenauer. “I was talking to the coach for a bit, and we decided that I could be a part of the pole vault team,” Reidenauer said last year in an interview with Nola.com.
“I have an academic scholarship, so I got in touch with Coach Todd (Lane). I told him my PRs and kept him updated about them, and he told me I could walk on to the team. I’m excited,” she added.
Reidenauer earned bronze indoors at the LHSAA State Championship with a clearance of 3.71 meters (12’ 2”). She also held a high school personal-best clearance of 3.81 meters (12’ 6”) in pole vault, showcasing her immense talent and dedication.
Tragically, Reidenauer’s promising journey was short. People will remember her legacy in track and field for ages. Sadly, we couldn’t see the true potential of the athlete. It’s a sad and emotional day for LSU. While grieving, her family, friends, and teammates also celebrate her promising future and remarkable accomplishments in her short life.
The post “We Are Devastated”: LSU Track and Field Coach Breaks Silence After 18-Year-Old Freshman Met Tragic Death appeared first on EssentiallySports.
