A college track and field athlete was killed by an alleged drunk driver in Virginia while running Thursday. Two of his teammates were also injured.
Eli Cramer, a 20-year-old sophomore at Milligan University, a private Christian school near Elizabethton, Tennessee, was fatally struck by suspect Jose Efrain Hernandez Mancia, according to WTKR. Mancia, 26, was taken to Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail following the accident.
Mancia was charged with a DUI involving involuntary manslaughter, felony hit and run, reckless driver, and several other charges after the fatal incident, according to state police, the outlet reported. (RELATED: Former Olympian, Track Star One Of Two Killed In Shootout)
The team traveled to Virginia for a track meet Friday, according to the Charlotte Observer.
Milligan University posted to their Facebook page and school website with requests for prayers for the community and the Cramer family.
Cramer’s injured teammates, Alex Mortimer and Eli Baldy, were taken to the hospital. Mortimer underwent surgery after suffering a dislocated shoulder and broken leg, according to the New York Post. Baldy was released after receiving treatment.
Five total members of the track team were taken to Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, according to WTKR3.
“The past 24 hours have been unimaginable for our campus and have left a hole in our community. Eli Cramer was our friend, classmate and teammate,” the university said in a statement remembering the runner. “Because we live on this side of life, where we’re always saying goodbye, our pain today may feel unbearable. However, I’m sure Cramer already has found his place in Heaven and is planning to meet us again someday.”