MERIDEN, Conn. – Southern Connecticut State University Athletics is shocked to learn of the passing of a member of the men's swimming and diving team, Jaylon Nixon of Meriden, Conn. Nixon passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2020 after a motor vehicle accident. He was just 18 years old.

"Southern Athletics is devastated to learn of Jaylon's passing," Director of Athletics Jay Moran said. "My heart breaks when a young person loses their life too soon. Our thoughts are with Jaylon's family, his friends and his Owl teammates during this very difficult time."

Nixon was a two-sport standout at Maloney High School of Meriden where he competed in football and diving. Upon his graduation, he held every diving record at Maloney and the co-op records with Platt High School.

"Southern Connecticut swimming and diving is very sad to learn of Jaylon's passing," head coach Tim Quill said. "I pray for his family and friends as they deal with his loss. Our hearts and prayers are with the Nixon family as they grieve his tragic passing."

This season, his first as an Owl, Nixon competed in the 1 Meter and 3 Meter diving event against Worcester Polytechnic, Coast Guard and Franklin & Marshall, placing third in both events.

Jaylon's family organized a gofundme page in his honor to support scholarships in the sports that he loved – swimming and football.