Markel Byrd expense fund
Donation protected
UNM Athletic Department announced early Wednesday morning sophomore safety Markel Byrd died in a single-car accident just across the Arizona state line, west of Gallup, Tuesday.
Byrd was driving home for the holidays with his girlfriend when their car suffered a blowout on I-40 west of Gallup. They were both ejected. Markel died instantly, and his girlfriend was taken to a hospital in critical condition.
"This is an absolute tragedy. Markel Byrd was an outstanding person and student-athlete and we will miss him," said UNM football coach Bob Davie. "I was with the family late Tuesday night and obviously they are devastated. Our thoughts and prayers go to them. Markel will forever be a member of our family."
Byrd was driving home for the holidays with his girlfriend when their car suffered a blowout on I-40 west of Gallup. They were both ejected. Markel died instantly, and his girlfriend was taken to a hospital in critical condition.
"This is an absolute tragedy. Markel Byrd was an outstanding person and student-athlete and we will miss him," said UNM football coach Bob Davie. "I was with the family late Tuesday night and obviously they are devastated. Our thoughts and prayers go to them. Markel will forever be a member of our family."
Organizer and beneficiary
Arthur Bell
Organizer
Albuquerque, NM
Stephanie Threadgill
Beneficiary