Mississippi Valley State football player Ryan Quinney dies in car accident

Mississippi Valley State announced Saturday in a social media post that football player Ryan Quinney died in a car crash Friday night.

Quinney was 20.

The Yazoo County Sheriff's Office would not comment when contacted Saturday by the Clarion Ledger.

MVSU interim athletic director and men's basketball coach George Ivory declined to comment on the incident before Saturday's game.

Jackson State, which played MSVU on Saturday at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium, included mention of Quinney in the pregame prayer.

MVSU also took a delay of game penalty in memory of Quinney, on its first drive of the game. Jackson State declined the penalty. Jackson State won the game, 51-14.

"We are heartbroken to share that our beloved student, Ryan Quinney, tragically lost his life in a car accident last night," the post on the school's Facebook account read. "Ryan was a bright light in our community with a spirit that lifted everyone around him. He will be deeply missed by his friends, faculty, and all who knew him."

A Facebook post shared by Anthony Cox, who identified Quinney as his son, confirmed the crash occurred in Yazoo City, which is about 50 miles south of the MVSU campus in Itta Bena.

"Gm, on behalf of my family I'm deeply sadden to make the public announcement that our son Ryan Quinney passed away last night in Yazoo City," the post read. "This is a pain I never wish any parent should experience. While i have to give all my support and attention to my love Lavetter Jones Cox and my family, I do ask that you keep us in your prayers.

"As we make all necessary arrangements we will keep all family and friends well informed. Empowerment Temple we appreciate the love and support. Together we will get through this. Thank you all, Apostle Cox! REST UP SOLIDER!"

The junior linebacker, a Mobile, Alabama, native, was in his second season at MVSU and had 13 tackles in five games. His last appearance this season was against Alabama State on Oct. 12. Quinney was a Lane College transfer.

Michael Chavez covers high school sports, among others, for the Clarion Ledger. Email him at mchavez@gannett.com or reach out to him on X, formerly Twitter @MikeSChavez.