Tragedy Strikes the McCaffery Family: Fran McCaffery’s Son Cited in Fatal Accident
Iowa City police have cited Jack McCaffery, the 16-year-old son of Fran McCaffery, Iowa’s longtime men’s basketball coach, with a simple misdemeanor in connection with a fatal automobile accident. The accident claimed the life of an off-duty Iowa National Guard soldier, Sgt. First Class Corey Hite.
The incident occurred on May 22 when Jack McCaffery was driving away from Iowa City West High School. On a two-lane street, another driver waved Sgt. Hite across the street while he was jogging. Unfortunately, Jack McCaffery, who was traveling in the same direction in a different lane, did not stop and struck Hite with his vehicle.
Jack McCaffery has been cited with failure to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk. Tragically, Sgt. Hite, who was weeks away from retiring from the military, succumbed to his injuries on June 4. According to the Iowa Code, a misdemeanor resulting in a death is punishable by a $1,000 fine and a 180-day suspended driver’s license.
In a statement released by the McCaffery family through their attorney, they described the accident as “unavoidable” and denied any evidence of distracted driving. They expressed their devastation over the tragedy and extended their deepest sympathies to Sgt. Hite’s family. The family also stated that they would not be making any further comments at this time as they continue to process the events and support their son through this difficult time.
Jack McCaffery, who stands at an impressive 6-foot-7, is a highly regarded four-star prospect in the Class of 2025, ranked No. 69 overall according to the 247Sports Composite. As a sophomore at Iowa City West last year, he showcased his skills on the court, averaging 16.0 points, 3.9 blocks, and 7.4 rebounds per game.
Unlike his older brothers Connor and Patrick, it seems that Jack will not be following in his father’s footsteps by attending Iowa and playing for him. In a recent interview with 247Sports, Jack McCaffery stated that he had made up his mind not to attend Iowa and expressed his desire to “get away from home.” He discussed this decision with his parents and brothers, and they all agreed that it would be the best choice for him.
The McCaffery family is undoubtedly going through an incredibly challenging time as they navigate the aftermath of this tragic accident. The loss of Sgt. Hite’s life is a devastating outcome, and it is essential for everyone involved to respect the family’s privacy and allow them the space to grieve and support their son.
As the investigation into the accident continues, it serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for drivers to be vigilant and attentive at all times. Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks, and it is crucial for drivers to yield to them to prevent accidents like this from happening.
Our thoughts go out to the McCaffery family and Sgt. Hite’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. May they find strength and support as they navigate through their grief and healing process.
(Photo: David Berding / Getty Images)