‘Pop wasn’t just a teammate’: 19-year-old College of San Mateo football player killed in collision

SAN JOSE — A 19-year-old College of San Mateo football player died in a vehicle collision early Sunday morning that also involved two other players, school officials said.

The student was identified as Ja’marion Grace, according to the Santa Clara County Office of the Medical Examiner. Grace was known by the nickname “Pop” and played defensive back wearing #21, according to a statement posted to social media by the College of San Mateo football team.

“Pop wasn’t just a teammate — he was a brother. He lit up every room he walked into with his infectious energy and smile, he had a way of making everyone around him feel special,” the team said. “Whether he was dancing in the locker room, cracking jokes in team meetings, or showing up for his teammates off the field, Pop gave everything he had each and every day.”

The solo-vehicle collision occurred around 2:06 a.m. on Highway 101 near Yerba Buena Road, according to a news release from the California Highway Patrol. Grace, a resident of Fairfield who was a passenger in the vehicle, was ejected and sustained fatal injuries.

One of the other two students involved in the collision sustained serious injuries and was still hospitalized on Monday, and the other was recovering at home, according to a message from Manuel Alejandro Pérez, president of the College of San Mateo, sent to students on Monday.

“Our hearts are with their families, friends, teammates, coaches, classmates, and everyone in our community affected by this tragedy,” Pérez said. “We know this news is very difficult, especially for those who knew these students personally.”

“As I shared with our team this morning, these moments show us our immense capacity to hold conflicting emotions. We can mourn the loss of our loved one and also remain hopeful and yearn for the full recovery of the other students involved,” he added. “In these moments of profound loss and sadness, I look to our values as an institution. We will move through these tough moments together, as a community, with love as a practical tool for authentic care.”

Grace, a freshman, had previously attended Vanden High School, according to the football roster.

A GoFundMe organized by Dominique Suber on behalf of Grace’s family said that he was a friend, brother, son and grandson. The funds raised will go toward funeral expenses and supporting his family.

“He was a light in the lives of everyone who had the blessing of knowing him. His presence brought love, laughter, warmth, and memories that his family and community will carry with them forever,” she wrote. “Rest peacefully, Ja’Marion ‘Pop’ Grace. Your light will continue to shine through everyone who loved you. Gone way too soon, but never forgotten.”

As of Tuesday afternoon, the fundraiser had netted more than $24,000.

When they arrived at the scene of the incident, officers found a solo vehicle collision, authorities said. The driver, a 19-year-old man from San Mateo, had been driving his 2013 Ford Fusion northbound when he “lost control of the vehicle,” authorities added.

The incident remains under investigation. Authorities do not yet know whether speed, alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash. Anyone with further information on the incident is asked to contact 408-961-0900.

The college is also offering counseling and resources to any students who need it. Students can call 650-574-6396 or email [email protected] for assistance. College employees can contact the Employee Assistance Program for short-term mental health support at 800-834-3773.

“Pop left a mark on all of us,” the football team added. “His spirit — his energy, his love, his laugh — will always be a part of the Bulldog family.”