Tragic Loss of Two Young Athletes
Unbreakable Friendship
Tyler Koscinski and Mason Santiago first became friends in third grade. From then on, their friendship never wavered. They were inseparable, always being their goofy and silly selves. They went everywhere together and did everything together, if Tyler was there, you know Mason was too, they were almost attached at the hip.
Fatal Crash
Koscinski, 20, of New Lenox and Mason Santiago, 19, of Joliet, were killed in a collision early Sunday morning on Interstate 80 between La Grange Road and Harlem Avenue in Tinley Park. Police said a Dodge Journey SUV and a truck-tractor semi-trailer were involved in a fatal crash, but no details surrounding what happened were released. The crash remained under investigation as of late Friday.
Athletic Achievements
Koscinski was a graduate of Lincoln-Way West High School, where he played football and baseball. He had just celebrated his 20th birthday days before the crash. Santiago was also an athlete, graduating from Providence Catholic High School, where he played football. Santiago was just starting his sophomore year at Saint Xavier University, where he was a member of the football team.
Celebrating Their Legacy
Kelly Koscinski told the Chicago Tribune the duo were traveling home from Saint Xavier at the time of the crash. Koscinski’s family shared similar comments, saying the two were "pretty inseparable." "It’s made it more tragic that we lost both of them," Kelly Koscinski said.
To honor their memory, relatives have established the Tyler Koscinski Memorial Foundation, which will provide scholarships and support for young athletes in the Lincoln-Way area, to ensure "Tyler’s spirit continues to drive excellence and opportunity in the world of sports." "We need to keep his memory alive. And that’s his legacy that’s his purpose," Kelly Koscinski said, referring to the foundation.
Conclusion
The loss of Tyler and Mason is a devastating blow to their families, friends, and the entire community. Their friendship and athletic achievements will never be forgotten. The Tyler Koscinski Memorial Foundation will ensure that their legacy lives on, inspiring future generations of athletes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened to Tyler and Mason?
A: They were killed in a fatal car crash on Interstate 80 in Tinley Park.
Q: What were they doing at the time of the crash?
A: They were traveling home from Saint Xavier University, where Mason was a sophomore football player.
Q: How did they become friends?
A: They first became friends in third grade and remained inseparable throughout their lives.
Q: What is the Tyler Koscinski Memorial Foundation?
A: It is a foundation established by Tyler’s family to provide scholarships and support for young athletes in the Lincoln-Way area.
