Just in ; Tragedy Strikes Texas Football: Longhorns Linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. Dies in Devastating Apartment Collapse
Tragedy Strikes Texas Football: Longhorns Linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. Dies in Devastating Apartment Collapse
Tragedy Strikes Texas Football: Longhorns Linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. Dies in Devastating Apartment Collapse
Austin, TX – March 4, 2025
The Texas Longhorns community is reeling from an unthinkable tragedy today as Anthony Hill Jr., one of the team’s brightest young stars and a rising force in college football, was killed when a multi-story apartment building collapsed in Austin late last night.
The collapse, which occurred at approximately 11:37 p.m. on Monday, sent shockwaves through the city. Emergency responders worked tirelessly through the night, sifting through rubble in search of survivors, but tragically, Hill was among the casualties. Authorities confirmed his passing early Tuesday morning, leaving teammates, coaches, and fans devastated.
A Rising Star Gone Too Soon
Anthony Hill Jr., just 19 years old, was widely considered one of the most promising linebackers in the nation. A standout player for the Longhorns, he earned second-team All-American honors and was a pivotal piece of Texas’ defense in the 2024 season. His hard-hitting style, instinctive playmaking, and leadership on and off the field made him a fan favorite and a respected presence in the locker room.
Born and raised in Denton, Texas, Hill was a five-star recruit out of Ryan High School and one of the most sought-after defensive players in his class. He quickly made an impact as a freshman, showcasing a rare combination of speed, power, and football IQ that set him apart from his peers. Many analysts projected him as a future first-round NFL Draft pick, with his stock soaring after an impressive sophomore campaign.
His death marks an enormous loss not only for the Texas football program but also for the broader college football community. Coaches, players, and fans across the country have expressed their sorrow, highlighting his immense talent, strong work ethic, and the kindness he showed to those around him.
The Collapse: What We Know So Far
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the apartment collapse, but early reports suggest structural weaknesses may have contributed to the disaster. The complex, located near the University of Texas campus, was a popular residence for students and athletes. Witnesses described a sudden and horrifying scene as the building crumbled, sending debris cascading onto the street below.
“I heard a loud crack, almost like an explosion,” said one resident who managed to escape. “Then the whole thing just started to come down. It was chaos. People were screaming, running – I’ve never seen anything like it.”
First responders arrived on the scene within minutes, deploying search-and-rescue teams to locate trapped residents. Hill was discovered beneath the wreckage early Tuesday morning, and despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials have not yet released an official death toll, but several other residents are feared dead or injured. Structural engineers are now conducting a full investigation into the building’s integrity and whether negligence or faulty construction played a role in the tragedy.
An Outpouring of Grief from the Football World
The news of Hill’s passing has sent shockwaves through the sports world, with tributes pouring in from former teammates, coaches, and football figures.
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian released a statement early Tuesday morning, struggling to hold back his grief.
“This is an unfathomable loss. Anthony was more than just a phenomenal football player – he was a leader, a brother, and a young man with an incredibly bright future. He had an infectious energy that lifted everyone around him. Our hearts are shattered, and our thoughts are with his family during this devastating time.”
Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte echoed similar sentiments.
“There are no words to describe the pain we feel. Anthony embodied everything great about Texas football. His passion, his dedication, his love for his teammates – he was truly special. This is a heartbreaking day for the entire Longhorn family.”
NFL players, including former Longhorns who had played alongside Hill, took to social media to express their sorrow.
“Devastated. Absolutely crushed,” wrote former Texas edge rusher and current NFL player Byron Murphy. “Anthony was like a little brother to me. This one hurts bad. Rest easy, bro.”
ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit called the news “gut-wrenching,” adding, “Anthony Hill Jr. had such a bright future ahead of him. My heart goes out to his family, his teammates, and everyone in the Texas program.”
A Legacy That Will Live On
Despite his young age, Anthony Hill Jr. leaves behind a lasting legacy. His impact on Texas football was immense, and his name will forever be remembered among the greats who wore the burnt orange and white.
The university has announced plans to honor Hill’s memory, including a tribute at the Longhorns’ next home game and the potential retirement of his jersey number. A candlelight vigil is set to take place on campus later this week, allowing students, fans, and teammates to gather and remember the young man who meant so much to so many.
“We lost a brother today,” said fellow linebacker Jaylan Ford. “But we will make sure his name, his legacy, and his impact live on forever.”
Hill’s family has asked for privacy as they navigate this unimaginable loss. A GoFundMe campaign has already been launched to assist with funeral expenses, and the Texas athletic department has pledged its full support to the Hill family in this difficult time.
As the Longhorns mourn one of their own, the football world stands in solidarity, remembering Anthony Hill Jr. not just for his achievements on the field, but for the person he was – a fierce competitor, a loyal teammate, and a young man taken far too soon.
