Texas Men's Lacrosse Freshman Dies in Car Crash

Sarp Akmeshe, 19, was killed in a tragic accident in Houston

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The University of Texas men's lacrosse team is mourning the loss of Sarp Akmeshe, a 19-year-old freshman from Houston, who died in a car crash in the city on Tuesday night.

Why it matters

The death of a young student-athlete is always a tragic event that deeply impacts a university community. Akmeshe was a new member of the Texas Lacrosse family, and his passing will be felt throughout the program and school.

The details

According to a statement from the Texas men's lacrosse team, Akmeshe was a freshman who had recently joined the program. The team described him as having an energy, kindness, and willingness to be part of something bigger than himself that embodied what it means to be a Longhorn.

  • Akmeshe died in a car crash in Houston on Tuesday night.

The players

Sarp Akmeshe

A 19-year-old freshman on the University of Texas men's lacrosse team who was from Houston and attended Westside High School.

University of Texas Men's Lacrosse Team

The collegiate lacrosse team that Akmeshe was a member of, which is now mourning his tragic passing.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We are heartbroken to share that our teammate and brother, Sarp Akmeshe, passed away Tuesday night in a tragic car accident.”

— University of Texas Men's Lacrosse Team (University of Texas Men's Lacrosse)

“Sarp was a freshman and a new member of the Texas Lacrosse family, but the impact he made on our program in such a short time will never be forgotten. His energy, kindness, and willingness to be a part of something bigger than himself embodied what it means to wear Texas across your chest.”

— University of Texas Men's Lacrosse Team (University of Texas Men's Lacrosse)

“Our hearts are with Sarp's family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”

— University of Texas Men's Lacrosse Team (University of Texas Men's Lacrosse)

“We ask our community to come together for one another, to lean on each other, and to honor Sarp's memory in the way he lived: with heart, courage, and love.”

— University of Texas Men's Lacrosse Team (University of Texas Men's Lacrosse)

The takeaway

The tragic loss of a young student-athlete is always deeply felt within a university community. Sarp Akmeshe's passing will leave a lasting impact on the Texas Lacrosse program and all those who knew him, as they work to honor his memory and support one another through this incredibly difficult time.