Utah State football player Andre Seldon Jr. dies in drowning accident at Porcupine Reservoir | News

LOGAN — A Utah State University football player drowned while cliff diving at Porcupine Reservoir Saturday afternoon. Andre Seldon Jr. was found dead by search and rescue crews around 9:05 p.m., nearly seven hours after the 22-year-old went underwater and did not resurface.

Cache County Sheriff’s Lt. Mikelshan Bartschi said their initial investigation led officers to believe it was a tragic accident because several witnesses reported the same information.

According to investigators, Seldon was observed jumping off a cliff into the water and not resurfacing at about 2:20 p.m. on July 20. Search and rescue teams and dive units were dispatched to the scene to search the area. A state dive team and a Utah Department of Public Safety helicopter also assisted in the search.

USU interim coach Nate Dreiling said, “Our football program is deeply saddened to lose one of our members. Having previously shared a relationship with Andre during our time together at New Mexico State, I can tell you that he was an incredible person and teammate. Our condolences and prayers go out to Andre’s family as we grieve with them over this terrible loss.”

Seldon joined Utah State’s football program this summer and was scheduled to begin classes in the fall. He most recently played two seasons at New Mexico State University, where Dreiling was the defensive coordinator. Before that, he spent two seasons at Michigan.

Seldon prepped at Belleville High School in Belleville, Michigan.

Bartschi said the sheriff’s office extends its deepest condolences to the student-athlete’s family and friends. Students struggling with this event can contact the university for mental health support.

Diana Sabau, vice president and athletic director, said, “Our Utah State University Athletics family is devastated by the sudden passing of Andre Seldon Jr. We extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, teammates and all who loved Andre.”

The organization of the funeral and memorial services is still pending.

USU Athletics spokesman Doug Hoffman said USU is working to provide emotional and mental support to both athletic staff and student-athletes as they process and grieve. Students affected by the death can contact Utah State’s CARE office for mental and emotional support, and counseling and psychological services provide support for students. Athletic staff are also encouraged to utilize the resources of the Employee Assistance Program.