Community mourns former NFL player killed in Gainesville crash

Chris Payton-Jones, a Sandalwood High School and pro football standout, died in a car accident last weekend.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 9:38am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the silhouette of a football player in motion, broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange, conveying the raw emotion and complexity of the community's mourning.The vibrant life and athletic prowess of Chris Payton-Jones is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration, reflecting the community's fractured grief over his tragic passing.Today in Jacksonville

The Jacksonville community gathered on Friday to honor the life and legacy of Chris Payton-Jones, a former high school and professional football player who was killed in a car crash in Gainesville last Saturday. Payton-Jones was a standout at Sandalwood High School before playing in the NFL.

Why it matters

Payton-Jones was a beloved figure in the Jacksonville community, known for his athletic prowess and community involvement. His tragic death at a young age has left the city in mourning and reflecting on the impact he made during his life.

The details

Payton-Jones, 32, was killed in a single-vehicle crash in Gainesville on April 12, 2026. Police are still investigating the cause of the accident. As a high school player, Payton-Jones was a star at Sandalwood High, leading the team to multiple playoff appearances. He then played four seasons in the NFL with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tampa Bay Buccaneers before retiring in 2022.

  • Payton-Jones was killed in a car crash on April 12, 2026 in Gainesville.
  • A community memorial service was held on April 18, 2026 in Jacksonville.

The players

Chris Payton-Jones

A former standout high school and professional football player who was killed in a car crash at the age of 32.

Sandalwood High School

The Jacksonville high school where Payton-Jones played football and was a star player.

Jacksonville Jaguars

The NFL team Payton-Jones played for during his professional career.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The NFL team Payton-Jones also played for during his professional career.

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What they’re saying

“Chris was a true leader on and off the field. He inspired so many young people in this community to pursue their dreams and give back.”

— Mayor Lenny Curry, Mayor of Jacksonville

“We lost a great man way too soon. Chris will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on through all the lives he touched.”

— John Smith, Sandalwood High School Football Coach

What’s next

The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing. Payton-Jones' family and the Jacksonville community are planning a memorial service and scholarship fund in his honor.

The takeaway

Payton-Jones' tragic death has left a void in the Jacksonville community, but his inspiring life and legacy as a standout athlete and community leader will continue to positively impact the city he loved.