Utah defensive back Aaron Lowe, 21, was killed in a house party shooting in Salt Lake City early Sunday morning, according to the Salt Lake City Police Department. Another victim, an adult female, is in critical condition, and police are searching for the suspect.
“We are devastated to hear about the passing of Aaron Lowe,” Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said Sunday. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Aaron’s family and friends, along with the other individual who was harmed in this tragic incident. Aaron was a great teammate, friend, brother and son and was loved by anyone who crossed paths with him. He will be deeply missed.”
This tragedy for Utah football comes less than a year after running back Ty Jordan died an in accidental shooting in December 2020.
Lowe went to high school with Jordan and changed his number from No. 2 to No. 22 to honor his legacy. He was also the first recipient of the Ty Jordan Memorial Scholarship, adding to the gravity of this news for the Utah football family.
“Ty made everyone around him better,” Lowe said.in August after being announced as the scholarship recipient. “He made me better. My friendship with Ty means a lot because he was always pushing me to be my best. He never let me settle for less. I want to make sure his legacy lives on through me.”
Utah quarterback Cameron Rising was among the many players to express their love in the wake of the news, tweeting “Rest In Peace A Lowe. Love you brother” on Sunday morning.
Lowe was a reserve defensive back during his three-year career with the Utes, logging game appearances mostly on special teams during his first two seasons.
“We are devastated by the loss of Aaron Lowe earlier this morning,” Utah athletic director Mark Harland said. “Aaron was a terrific young man, a leader on our football team, and a rock of resiliency and courage. Our prayers are with Aaron’s family, friends, teammates and all who knew and loved him. We also express our deepest concern for the other individual who has been hospitalized as a result of this tragic incident. We have been in communication with Aaron’s family and we are providing support to them, as well as to the student-athletes, coaches and staff in all of our athletics programs, and our focus will remain on them.”
