Hudson Catholic football coaches among 6 dead in Newark crash; classes canceled Monday
They were identified as Hudson Catholic head coach Lamar McKnight and assistant coach Brad Cunningham.
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Two high school football coaches were among six victims of a fatal crash Friday night in Newark, according to authorities.
They were identified as Hudson Catholic head coach Lamar McKnight and assistant coach Brad Cunningham.
The single-vehicle crash occurred just before 11 p.m. Friday on Raymond Boulevard.
Authorities say the car was traveling toward the ramp leading to the Route 1-9 overpass at the Pulaski Highway when it veered off, became airborne and then hit a support column.
The car burst into flames after landing.
Investigators say they are working to identify the other victims.
Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop released a statement responding to the incident. It read in part, “Jersey City mourns the tragic loss of six community members gone too soon, including two beloved Hudson Catholic coaches who touched countless lives through their dedication to our youth.”
Police say a press conference about the accident is scheduled to take place on Monday afternoon.
The Archdiocese of Newark also released a statement:
"The Hudson Catholic High School community is devastated by the tragic loss of two beloved coaches. They were dedicated educators and mentors who made a lasting impact on players, students and colleagues. Their warmth, commitment, and passion for the Hudson Catholic community will never be forgotten. Our hearts and prayers go out to their families and friends, and to the families of the other victims of this tragedy.
All Hudson Catholic classes will be canceled on Monday. However, staff and counselors will be available on campus to support our community."
The community is mourning the loss of the two graduates who returned to Jersey City later in life to enrich the next generation of student-athletes.
“I’m devastated by his loss,” said Alfonso Millsap, Cunningham’s uncle. “He was a really stand-up type of guy.”
Millsap spoke with News 12 while wearing his nephew’s jacket from his own playing days at Hudson Catholic.
“Him and I, we would hang out, and he left this in my car one time,” Millsap said. “I said, ‘I’m going to take this as a little souvenir.’ So, all the while I had it in my closet for all these years, and I decided to bring it out tonight because it's really special.”
In a social media post, State Sen. Angela McKnight acknowledged the loss of Lamar and Darryl McKnight - two members of her family.
