A terrible loss struck the Sacramento State Hornets football team after their former offensive lineman, Ivan Garza, tragically passed away at the age of 25. On July 8, 2026, his high school, Robert F. Kennedy High, announced his death.

Garza was involved in a car accident; the details have yet to be disclosed. The university released a statement offering deep condolences to his family, remembering him as a wonderful teammate and an integral part of their championship history.

“We give our deepest condolences to Ivan’s friends and family. He will be remembered as a wonderful teammate, player, and Hornet,” read the post by the Hornets.

Garza was a talented offensive lineman who started his career in 2019 by signing a Division 1 football scholarship. He made a local star by becoming the first footballer from Robert F. Kennedy High School in Delano, California, to reach such a level.

After reaching Sacramento State, he took a redshirt year as a freshman. After learning the essence of the playbook, he was all set to grab his spot in the playing roster, but unfortunately, that couldn’t happen.

The Big Sky Conference cancelled the fall 2020 football season because of the onset of COVID-19. In 2021, he finally set foot on the ground and commenced his journey. He won the starting role at left tackle by the third game, which was against Penn State that season. He started in 10 games and helped the Hornets secure an undefeated 8-0 record in Big Sky. The icing on top was winning the Big Sky Championship.

His selflessness was depicted in the 2022 season when he gave away his position for a returning starter. He flipped to right tackle to accommodate his teammate and had a smooth transition. He started all 13 games, anchoring an offense that set program records with 74 touchdowns and 3369 rushing yards. As for his last season with the Hornets, he was back at his original position. He also earned All-Big Sky Honorable Mention honors.

Garza did not transition into professional football and stepped away from football. He carried forward his work ethic, learned from football, into his regular career endeavors

Fans and players sent their condolences to Ivan Garza’s family

The sudden passing of the talented OL Ivan Graza has left everyone under an outpouring of grief. Fans and players from all across the world have been sending their condolences to the family.

“Friends, coaches and teammates remember him as a ‘gentle giant’ whose kindness left a lasting impact on everyone around him,” said the local community, Delano Sports Media. “Tragic! Condolences to the family,” read the comment by Kenny SacState.

“Rip and prayers, Lord, heal his family and friends, teammates, and loved ones, read another comment by a fan.

“On our side, it’s a very sad day; on heaven’s side. It’s a celebration of another Angel coming home. We’re just passing through. We’re all just passing through on our way to heaven. Father God be with his family at this very tragic time. Just let them know that everything’s gonna be OK and that young Angel is in good hands,” commented one fan.