West Chester University student killed in weekend crash

Family remembers Garrett Nicholas as a compassionate young man who always put others first

Apr. 15, 2026 at 12:26am

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An extreme close-up photograph of an unidentified personal item, such as a wallet or keys, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty aesthetic that conceptually represents the investigation into a recent pedestrian fatality.A personal item belonging to Garrett Nicholas serves as a somber reminder of the young life lost in a weekend tragedy near West Chester University.West Chester Today

The family of Garrett Nicholas, a 21-year-old West Chester University student who was killed in a weekend crash, is remembering him as a compassionate young man who consistently showed kindness and compassion to others. Nicholas was struck by a vehicle early Sunday morning while crossing the street near his fraternity house, and the driver remained at the scene. Police have not filed any charges. Nicholas' mother, Traci Conrad Hafner, said her son's legacy will live on through organ donation and the many lives he has already touched.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the importance of pedestrian safety, especially near college campuses where young adults are frequently crossing streets. It also underscores the impact a single life can have on a community, and the family's desire to honor Nicholas' memory through acts of kindness.

The details

Garrett Nicholas, a junior at West Chester University studying business management and supply chain management, was struck by a vehicle early Sunday morning while crossing the street near his fraternity house. Witnesses said the driver remained at the scene, but police have not filed any charges. Nicholas' mother, Traci Conrad Hafner, described her son as someone who consistently showed kindness and compassion to others, and said his legacy will live on through organ donation and the many lives he has already touched.

  • Garrett Nicholas was struck by a vehicle early Sunday morning (April 13, 2026).

The players

Garrett Nicholas

A 21-year-old junior at West Chester University who was studying business management and supply chain management.

Traci Conrad Hafner

Garrett Nicholas' mother, who is remembering her son as a compassionate young man who always put others first.

West Chester University

The university where Garrett Nicholas was a student.

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What they’re saying

“I feel like it's a bad dream I wish I could wake up from. Our lives are never going to be the same without him.”

— Traci Conrad Hafner, Garrett Nicholas' mother

“That boy had no hate in his body. Not one ounce.”

— Traci Conrad Hafner, Garrett Nicholas' mother

“He never wanted to see anyone sad. And I know right now he'd be like, 'Oh, mom, would you stop crying?' That's exactly what he would say.”

— Traci Conrad Hafner, Garrett Nicholas' mother

What’s next

The family is now hoping to launch a "#BeLikeGarrett" movement to encourage others to spread kindness in Garrett's honor. They are also working to establish a scholarship fund in his name to help other students afford college.

The takeaway

This tragic loss highlights the importance of pedestrian safety, especially near college campuses, and the lasting impact a compassionate individual can have on their community. The family's desire to honor Garrett's memory through acts of kindness is a heartwarming testament to his legacy.