CORAL GABLES, Fla., Feb. 16 (UPI) -- Miami linebacker Chris Campbell, the third-leading tackler on the Hurricanes' national
championship team last season, was killed Saturday morning in a one-car accident. He was 21.
Campbell apparently lost control of the Toyota Corolla he was driving and hit a tree, according to a Coral Gables (Fla.) police spokesman.
A passenger in the car is in stable condition at Jackson Memorial Hospital.
"Chris's death is a tremendous tragedy and a terrible loss for the Miami football family," said Miami Coach Larry Coker. "On
behalf of the entire Miami football program, I'd like to express our deepest sympathies and our condolences to Chris's family."
The cause of death will be determined by the Miami-Dade County medical examiner.
"Chris was a wonderful young man," said University President Dr. Donna E. Shalala. "His death is a tragedy for the whole community."
"The Hurricanes athletic department mourns Chris's passing," said Director of Athletics Paul Dee. "He was an exceptional
young man. Chris and his family are in our thoughts and prayers."
Campbell had been a starter for the Hurricanes at strongside linebacker since midway through the 1999 season, starting 30
consecutive games before missing the 2002 Rose Bowl victory over Nebraska because of infection in his left knee following minor
surgery.
Miami won its fifth national championship and first since 1991 this past season, finishing off a 12-0 campaign with a 37-14
rout of Nebraska on Jan. 3.
Campbell was the senior leader for Miami's young linebacker corps, recording 68 tackles, two sacks and an interception in 11
games.
During his college career, Campbell played in 41 games and had 221 tackles and six sacks.
