EUGENE, OR – A University of Oregon football player has been apprehended and charged with a felony hit-and-run related to a fatal incident that transpired earlier this week, according to local law enforcement authorities. Daylen Amir Austin, a 19-year-old defensive back for the Oregon Ducks, was implicated in the crash that took place on Monday, resulting in the death of a 46-year-old man.
The Eugene Police Department is currently conducting an intricate investigation into the matter. Information is still being collected to be presented to the Lane County District Attorney’s Office to finalize the charges. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with residents recounting the harrowing moments leading up to the fatal crash.
One local resident, Seth Lockard, described hearing the sounds of a car speeding and doing circles for nearly 15 minutes before a loud thump echoed through the neighborhood. The sudden sound of sirens and the sight of police cars and tape marked the gravity of the situation, leaving Lockard and his wife in shock.
Austin, who played in three games for Oregon during the 2023 season and recorded three tackles and one pass defended, was arraigned in Lane County Court. He did not enter a plea, and his next court appearance is scheduled for May 22. University officials have confirmed their awareness of the incident involving the student-athlete.