In an unfortunate turn of events, Mario Heslop, a rising star in athletics, met a tragic end in a multi-vehicle crash in Somerset County as per his obituary with a GoFundMe set up for him now
The 23-year-old had made a name for himself in high school track and field events in New Jersey, capturing numerous awards and setting several state records.
Track and field athlete Mario Heslop dead in car accident, obituary, bio, age, college, stats, GoFundMe campaign
— shyru732 (@shyru732) June 25, 2023
The unfortunate incident with Mario Heslop at Somerset County
Authorities reported that the promising athlete from New Brunswick, New Jersey, was involved in a three-vehicle collision on June 19, 2023. Heslop was driving a 2013 Infiniti Q50S on Hamilton Street in Franklin Township around 5:30 PM. For yet unknown reasons, his vehicle crossed the centerline, colliding with a vehicle heading west at Hillcrest Avenue’s intersection. The impact sent the second vehicle into the path of a third one, also heading west.
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Heslop, who was tended to at the crash site, was later rushed to a nearby hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries. The second vehicle’s driver received hospital treatment for non-critical injuries, while the third vehicle’s driver declined on-scene treatment.
Mario Heslop’s legacy on the track
Mario Heslop, a Franklin High School alumnus, was recognized as the most accomplished high school sprinter in New Jersey’s history. Mile Split recorded that Heslop claimed eight Meet of Champions titles during his high school career, which culminated in 2019. The athlete was also honored as the ‘Athlete of the Year’ in 2018 and 2019 by multiple New Jersey sports websites.
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Heslop also made his mark by setting three state records during his high school years. While reflecting on his motivation and aspirations, Heslop once told NJ.Com, “Before I leave high school, I want to make a name for myself. I want to go out there and do my best…The more I run, the better I get. The more I give of myself, the times keep dropping, and I’m proud of myself for that.”
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Mario Heslop’s success beyond high school
After graduating, Heslop continued to showcase his extraordinary talent on the track. He competed in several athletic meetings, initially running at North Carolina A&T in Greensboro, North Carolina, then for OXY Athletics in Georgia. Mile Split cites the World Athletics website, noting that Heslop clocked 10.12 in the 100m and 20.44 in the 200m in 2022. Earlier this year, in April 2023, he bagged first place in both the 100-meter and 200-meter races at the Kennesaw State University Invitational.
The investigation continues
The Franklin Township Police Department, along with the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Collision Analysis Reconstruction Team, are currently investigating the incident. No further details have been disclosed about the collision, including whether any charges have been laid in the wake of the tragic accident.
Mario Heslop’s untimely passing has left a void in the athletic community. His passion, dedication, and achievements will continue to inspire many young athletes, reminding us all of the heights that relentless pursuit of excellence can attain.
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