College football recruit killed after being hit by a truck while on his motorcycle
Eastern Michigan football commit Elijah Berman has died aged 17 after being hit by a truck while riding his motorcycle.
The teenager, who was part of the college team's 2026 recruiting class, was involved in the crash in Franklin, Ohio on Tuesday, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
The incident occurred at 5:12pm after Berman - who had been driving a 2006 Suzuki DL1000 motorcycle - was struck by a 1995 Peterbilt 379 semi truck.
According to law enforcement, the truck was driven by 41-year-old Anthony Allen of Michigan, who 'struck the motorcycle in the intersection'.
Berman, 17, was transported to Atrium Medical Center, where he later died due to his injuries. Allen also received treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.
The teenage star was a defensive lineman from Dayton who committed to Eastern Michigan earlier this month.
Tributes for Berman quickly flooded online, with Chaminade Julienne Principal Greg Mueller writing: 'It is with broken hearts that our community comes together to embrace the family and friends of senior student Elijah Berman who tragically died Tuesday evening.
'Eli was an all-around Eagle — a member of the football and track teams, had recently accepted an offer to play college football at Eastern Michigan University, was an Eagle Ambassador, participated in the Little Sibs program and was a strong student with a big personality.
'We ask for prayers for God's peace and comfort through this tragic and most difficult time'.
Meanwhile, Berman's football coach took to X to share his own tribute, as he shared a picture alongside the talented defensive lineman.
He wrote: 'We are mourning the passing of Elijah Berman. Our thoughts & prayers are with his mother Heather, current teammates, family & friends.
'Elijah was ultra talented, yet it was his big heart, infectious smile, & awesome personality that made us fall in love with him. RIP Elijah'.
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