On August 15, 2024, a devastating accident claimed the life of Preston J. Korytkowski, a 22‑year‑old defenseman who had served as captain of the Michigan State University Division II hockey team. The crash occurred on Interstate 95 in Caroline County, Virginia, when the Honda CR‑V he was driving collided with a parked tractor‑trailer. Emergency responders pronounced Korytkowski dead at the scene, while the truck driver sustained only minor injuries.
A Community in Mourning
Korytkowski had spent four seasons with the Michigan State Spartans, compiling 10 goals and 12 assists in 103 collegiate appearances. His leadership on the ice was matched by the admiration he inspired off it, with teammates describing him as “the best human” and a player who made everyone around him better.
The news quickly spread across social media, where the official Michigan State Spartans hockey Instagram account posted a heartfelt tribute, calling him a teammate, a friend, and a pillar of the program. Fellow players, classmates and alumni flooded the comments with memories of his work ethic, humility and the positive energy he brought to practices and games.
Authorities confirmed that the tractor‑trailer had been parked on the shoulder when the collision occurred, a detail that underscores the unpredictable dangers that can arise on busy highways. The driver, who suffered only minor injuries, cooperated fully with investigators as the Virginia State Police continue to piece together the circumstances that led to the crash.
The loss reverberates beyond the rink, prompting the university to schedule a moment of silence before upcoming events and to reflect on the profound impact of a young athlete whose promise was cut short. As the Spartans prepare for the next season, the memory of Preston J. Korytkowski will remain a guiding light for a program that has lost a true leader.
Fans, faculty and local residents have organized vigils and candlelight gatherings to honor Korytkowski’s memory, underscoring the deep connections he forged within the community.