Vigil for teenager from Prosper, Texas, who died in car crash

PROSPER, Texas — Numerous friends and family members gathered outside Children’s Health Stadium in Prosper to remember the young man who died on Texas roadways this week.

Caden Clay, 19, died in a car crash near Longview. Clay, who lived in Prosper and attended Prosper High School, was on his way to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where he is attending college.

The sophomore at the University of Alabama studied sports management and was equipment manager for the Alabama football team.

“I just got the news that he was gone. It was heartbreaking, it was horrible,” said his uncle JT Grubbs.

Clay was described as a highly motivated, friendly and very talented young man.

“He is probably the most extraordinary 19-year-old you could ever meet. He was extremely determined in everything he did,” said his aunt Melissa Grubbs.

His high school football coaches said Caden, or “Slick Willie,” always wanted to be the equipment manager for football’s elite. Coach Devin Lemons said if Caden commits to something, he’ll get it.

“You couldn’t beat him. He had the greatest attitude and the most positive outlook on life,” Coach Lemons said.

Just last week, Caden brought coaches Ty Lenard and Lemons lunch before leaving for summer camp in Alabama. The coaches are deeply saddened that these would be their last moments together.

“I have two little girls and my only sons are my players, so being able to hug a son is irreplaceable for me,” Lenard said.

Some hats and T-shirts sold in town read #BEACADEN. The family tells WFAA that Caden relied so heavily on his faith and that set him apart from his peers.

“I can’t think of anything anyone would rather be than a Caden. That young man was incredible,” Grubbs said.

The Alabama Football Association dedicated a social media post to the Clay family expressing its condolences.

The family told WFAA that legendary Alabama coach Nick Saban and his family sent a bouquet of flowers to the family’s home in Prosper. Meanwhile, the high school he attended and city hall were lit crimson in Caden’s honor.