Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim involved in fatal collision with man walking on I-690, per police

Syracuse Orange men’s basketball coach Jim Boeheim was involved in a fatal collision with a man walking on the Interstate I-690 last night around 11:22 p.m., according to Syracuse Police.

According to police, Boeheim’s car fatally struck 51-year old Syracuse resident Jorge Jimenez, who had exited onto the freeway after a previous crash. Jimenez was then struck by Boeheim’s car shortly thereafter. Boeheim recorded a BAC of 0.00 at the scene.

From the Syracuse Police Department:

The Syracuse Police Department investigates a fatal crash. On Thursday, February 21, 2019 (sic), at about 11:22 p.m. the Syracuse Police Department responded to 690 East near Thompson Road for a crash. Upon Officers arrival, they found a 51-year-old victim, Jorge Jimenez, of Syracuse who had been struck by a vehicle. The victim was transported to Upstate University Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

The Syracuse Police Department Traffic Section commenced an investigation. As a result of that investigation so far, it was revealed that the victim was an occupant in a vehicle that had lost control on the highlight striking a guard rail. The occupants then exited the vehicle and proceeded to walk on the highway within close proximity to that vehicle. An oncoming vehicle noticed the disabled car and tried avoiding the vehicle, which was in the middle of the road. As a result, the driver, James Boeheim, 74, of Fayetteville NY struck the victim who was standing on the side of the road. Both drivers remained on scene and are cooperating with this investigation. Field sobriety and alco-sensor tests for both drivers were negative for any signs of impairment. Reconstruction of the scene will be performed and speeds cannot be determined at this time.

Alcohol has been ruled out as Boeheim registered a BAC of 0.00, which was confirmed by Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick. Boeheim will not be charged at this time and was fully cooperative with authorities.

This incident was first reported by Syracuse.com. Boeheim issued a brief statement on Thursday:

“I am heartbroken that a member of our community died as a result of last night’s accident. Juli and I extend our deepest sympathies to the Jimenez family. Out of respect for those involved, I will not be providing further comment at this time.”

Syracuse.com’s Chris Libonati was at the press conference this afternoon with Fitzpatrick and Syracuse Police Chief Kenton Buckner. According to Buckner, Boeheim called in the incident after it occurred, tried to render aid and then made attempts to stop oncoming traffic. Buckner said the investigation is ongoing and all information is preliminary, but he does not expect charges against Boeheim.

Condolences to Jimenez’s family following this horrible incident. This post will be updated as more information becomes available.