Iona Recruit Haynes Killed; Promising Athlete Being Mourned
Iona College basketball recruit Michael Haynes was shot in killed in front of his home in Chicago Thursday night.
The incoming student athlete was 22 years old. He died of gun shots to the wrist, chest, and lower back while fending off a thief who had stolen his grandmother's necklace.
Haynes had enough strength to enter the hospital from the car that transported him on his home, but he later died on the operating table.
Iona's basketball coach Tim Cluess released a statement Friday.
"The Iona family is devastated with the news on Michael's passing. His passion, energy and excitement for his opportunity this year makes this tragedy even more upsetting. Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers are with his family," said the coach.
Moreover, Cluess opened up about the loss of Haynes, who had a promising athletic career ahead as part of the Iona Gaels.
"That's the toughest part," said Cluess of Haynes' abilities, according to Yahoo News. "You know that kid's life would have turned out so differently and this never would have occurred. He had a bright future. He couldn't wait to get out here, get started on a new life and get away from a neighborhood he knew was really dangerous."
The basketball program at the college in New Rochelle, N.Y. was expecting Haynes arrival in just one month on Aug. 28.
Crushed by Haynes' death, Cluess continued, "He was one of those kids you wanted to coach because he was a different personality. He wanted better in his life, and it wasn't just about basketball. He wanted to be mentored, he wanted someone who was going to care about him and he wanted to be in a family atmosphere."
Haynes was originally committed to the University of Texas-El Paso, but never played for the Miners. He was ranked the number 11 in the state of Illinois by ChicagoHoops.com.
Iona College along with hundreds of others are mourning the loss of the promising athlete, and many have taken to social media sites on Friday.
"Another Chicagoan gone from this ridiculousness … R.I.P. to a promising hooper Michael Haynes," wrote Larry.
Rilwan posted, "Rip Michael Haynes this crazy why are we killing each other #Chicago."
"R.I.P. Michael Hayne," wrote Hyinth. "I swear u will be missed bro… Why the good leave first?"
Moreover, friends of Haynes have opened up about the devastating loss, according to a local Chicago station, ABC 7 News.
"So disturbing to say that we are used to seeing it," said Haynes' friend Juanita Pittman, speaking to ABC 7. "Everyday. It's what happens when you stay here. Two ways to get out. Jail or death."
Haynes' cousin, Robert Kimbrough, described the basketball player as "genuine."
"Been a star since 7th grade," Kimbrough continued. "As far as his athletic ability, man."
