Justin Gatlin Sends Prayers As Track Community Mourns Fred Kerley’s Friends’ Loss

Fred Kerley’s 2025 season has unraveled in ways he could not have imagined, leaving the Olympic champion suspended, battling legal issues, and struggling to regain form on the track. Yet in the middle of these public setbacks, another wound has resurfaced, one that is far more personal and enduring.

Long before the headlines of missed tests and courtroom appearances, Kerley endured the sudden loss of a close companion, a tragedy that continues to shadow him years later. That loss was Shavez Hart. The Bahamian sprinter died on September 3, 2022, only two days before his 30th birthday. According to the Royal Bahamas Police, a fight broke out in a nightclub parking lot in North Abaco when one of the men involved returned with a gun and shot Hart in the chest. He was taken to Marsh Harbour Clinic, where he was pronounced dead. The former Texas A&M standout left behind a career that included a silver medal in the 4×400-meter relay at the 2016 World Indoor Championships and a gold in the 4×100-meter relay at the 2013 CAC Championships.

This week, Kerley revealed the weight of that absence in a message posted to Instagram. “Damn bro this one hit different today I miss you heavy I know you always had my back through it all a real one a true brother I need you down here with me dawg my road dawg.” His words underscored the depth of a bond formed not only through competition but through years of friendship and shared experience. Former world champion Justin Gatlin was among those who acknowledged the post, leaving a comment that read simply, “🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾.”

Hart’s career spoke for itself.

Born September 6, 1992, in Coopers Town, Abaco Islands, he became the third fastest Bahamian sprinter ever at 100 meters, clocking a 10.10. His 200-meter best of 20.23 placed him fourth all-time among Bahamians. A graduate of St. Georges High School in Freeport, he first made his mark as a bronze medalist at the 2011 CARIFTA Games and later represented his country at the 2016 Olympic Games. Outside the track, he owned a popular venue named Magenta, further cementing his presence in Bahamian culture.

For Kerley, 2025 has brought a cascade of difficulties. A provisional suspension from the Athletics Integrity Unit for three whereabouts failures, multiple arrests linked to alleged altercations, and withdrawals from the U.S. Championships, World Championships, and the Grand Slam Track circuit. But amid these troubles, his remembrance of Hart suggests where his thoughts still rest. As his performances faltered and his public image came under scrutiny, Kerley returned to a simpler truth: That even as a career unravels, the absence of a true friend leaves the deepest mark.

Fans share emotional words as Fred Kerley mourns late friend Shavez Hart

The phrase “Long Live Sparkie 🕊️💔” echoes how deeply Shavez Hart, fondly called “Sparkie,” is remembered beyond his athletic records. For fans, it is not just about his medals or times but his enduring presence in Bahamian track culture and among close friends like Fred Kerley, who still feels the void years after the tragedy.

When a supporter writes “Sparkie forever ❤️❤️❤️”, it reflects the permanence of Hart’s legacy. His career achievements, being among the fastest Bahamians in history, cemented his name in the sport. Even after his death, fans insist on keeping his spirit alive, linking their sentiments to his celebrated performances and the pride he brought to his community.

The reaction “Sending love and light during this dark time ✨🤍🕊️” resonates with Kerley’s ongoing struggles. While his suspension and personal troubles dominate headlines, fans recognize the emotional layer of grief tied to Hart’s loss. This support is aimed at uplifting Kerley, suggesting that the memory of Hart should provide strength amid adversity.

A fan recalling, “This picture bring back so much memories, I miss them college days @fkerley99 RIP”, highlights the Texas A&M connection where Hart and Kerley’s friendship solidified. Their bond grew in those formative years, long before global medals. The comment ties nostalgia with loss, showing how their relationship extended beyond competition to shared campus life and experiences.

The message “😢 So sad! I hope that it will keep you motivated and continue strong 💪” connects Hart’s memory to Kerley’s uncertain career path in 2025. Despite suspensions and legal battles, the fan frames Hart’s absence as a possible source of motivation. It reflects an encouragement that even as challenges mount, remembering Hart might inspire Kerley to push forward.