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TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made a donation to the family of an 18-year-old fan who died in a car crash while headed to the game against the Chiefs in Kansas City, a team spokesperson confirmed to News Channel 8.
Connor Barba, 18, and his mother were headed to Kansas City for Monday night’s game after he was surprised with tickets for his birthday, according to ESPN. Barba’s favorite player is Bucs QB Baker Mayfield.
While traveling through Kansas on Saturday, Barba and his mother were involved in a deadly crash after a vehicle hit theirs head-on, according to Kansas Highway Patrol. Barba and the driver of another vehicle were killed in the crash. His mother, Megan Barnett, was seriously injured.
ESPN reported that the team has made a $10,000 donation.
A team spokesperson confirmed to News Channel 8 that in addition to the team’s donation, Mayfield and his wife plan to reach out to the family.
“My thoughts and prayers go out to Megan and her family as they deal with this heartbreaking loss,” Mayfield said in a statement released to ESPN. “I am honored and humbled knowing that Connor was such a big fan. I would have loved to have met him. As a new parent, this really hits home for me. I realize there are no words that can provide true comfort at a time such as this, but I hope that Megan makes a full recovery and that she draws strength from the outpouring of support she is receiving from around the country.”
A GoFundMe was set up to help the family and was shared by the Bucs on social media.
“Sending our love to Connor Barba’s family as they grieve this tragic loss,” the team said. “Join us in supporting Connor’s family through this challenging time.”
