CHICAGO, Illinois | The Chicago sports and school communities are mourning Hazel Krauss, a 19-year-old former volleyball player at Saint Ignatius College Prep who died after being struck by a vehicle in Gainesville, Florida.
Krauss, a freshman at the University of Florida, died after the collision on Saturday, October 24, 2026. According to reports from Gainesville police, the incident occurred at approximately 11:33 p.m. in the 2300 block of West University Avenue, near the university campus.
What Happened to Hazel Krauss?
Police said the driver of an eastbound vehicle swerved while attempting to avoid another vehicle. During the manoeuvre, the car struck Krauss as she was crossing the road and also collided with the other vehicle.
A nurse who witnessed the incident stopped to assist Krauss before emergency responders arrived. She was transported to UF Health Shands Hospital, where she later died from her injuries, according to local news reports.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the collision. Reports indicate that no arrests had been made in connection with the crash as of the latest available updates. A separate driver was arrested at the scene on suspicion of impaired driving, but police said that vehicle was not involved in the collision that killed Krauss.
Hazel Krauss’ Life, Education and Volleyball Legacy
Krauss graduated from Saint Ignatius College Prep in Chicago in 2026. During her time at the school, she participated in girls’ volleyball and bowling, while also taking part in student organisations and service activities.
Her involvement in volleyball extended beyond high school. She played for Chicago Elite Volleyball, wore jersey No. 41 and served as a team captain. Coach Kayla Malec, who began coaching Krauss when she was 12, remembered her as a dedicated athlete committed to improving her game.
Her former school described her as a student who demonstrated intellectual curiosity, faith, compassion and a commitment to justice. The school community said it was holding her family in its thoughts as loved ones faced the loss.
At the University of Florida, Krauss was studying at the Warrington College of Business and had joined the Delta Gamma sorority, according to local reporting.
Remembering Hazel Krauss
Krauss’ death has left friends, former teammates, coaches and classmates grieving a young woman whose life connected communities in Chicago and Gainesville.
Her story also highlights the consequences of serious pedestrian collisions and the importance of road safety around university campuses.
As authorities continue their investigation, further official findings may clarify the circumstances surrounding the crash. Her family, friends and former teammates are left to remember a young athlete whose commitment to volleyball and participation in her school community made a lasting impression.
Editorial note: The circumstances of the collision are based on published local news reports. Funeral arrangements and a separate medical cause of death have not been independently confirmed for this article.