Former Sacramento State offensive lineman Ivan Garza was killed on July 8 after a vehicle struck him in Delano, California. He was 25.
Garza had been a standout player for the Hornets from 2021 through 2023, starting every game his final two seasons and earning honorable‑mention All‑Big Sky honors in 2023.
Before college, he excelled at Robert F. Kennedy High School in Delano, where he was named first‑team all‑state small school by Cal‑Hi Sports and first‑team all‑South Sequoia League as a senior.
Team and Community Pay Tribute
The Sacramento State Football program issued a statement remembering Garza as “a wonderful teammate and player,” and the university has announced a GoFundMe created in his memory to support his family.
Coaches and former teammates have shared condolences on social media, highlighting his work ethic and the impact he had on the locker room. A candlelight vigil is planned for later this week at the campus quad.
Delano police are investigating the hit‑and‑run incident. Authorities have asked anyone with information to come forward, though no suspects have been publicly identified.
Garza’s story underscores the growing concerns about road safety for student‑athletes, many of whom balance training, academics and part‑time work. His death has prompted renewed discussions about pedestrian safety near college campuses.