Head Swim Coach Brad Smith Injured, Eight-Month-Old Son Passes Away in Devastating Crash
Youngstown State University is in mourning after head swim coach Brad Smith was seriously injured in a car accident that tragically took the life of his eight-month-old son, Finn. The incident occurred on Friday in Goshen Township, Ohio, when a Chevy Impala failed to yield to a truck at an intersection, causing a head-on collision with Smith’s crossover SUV. Ohio State Highway Patrol is currently investigating the crash.
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Finn was immediately rushed to Akron Children’s Hospital, but despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he did not survive. Brad Smith underwent surgery and is expected to be discharged from the hospital later this week, but his recovery process will be long and arduous.
In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to support Brad Smith and his wife, Becky. The fundraising efforts have already garnered significant support, with over $5,000 donated within the first day, bringing the campaign halfway to its goal.
The GoFundMe description reads:
“Becky and Brad Smith are a beloved part of our Fred Astaire Youngstown dance family. On Friday, June 9th, Brad and their 8-month-old baby, Finn, were involved in a serious car accident. Tragically, Finn did not survive, and Brad sustained injuries that require surgery and an extensive recovery process. Finn brought joy to everyone who met him, and Becky and Brad are devoted, loving parents. While nothing can bring Finn back, we hope that this financial support can alleviate some of their burden. As Becky is self-employed, our goal is to raise funds to allow her time off from work so she can focus on her family and begin the healing process. Brad will also require caregiving after his surgery. Any donation you can provide is immensely appreciated.”
Brad Smith recently completed his fourth season as the head coach of the Youngstown State Penguins, where he played an instrumental role in the team’s success. Under his guidance, the men’s and women’s swim teams achieved their best finishes in program history, both securing fourth place at the 2023 Horizon League Championships. Notably, Gavin Webb and Aleksa Radenovic made history by earning podium finishes at the 2023 CSCAA National Invitational Championships, propelling the Penguins to an overall 21st place out of 41 schools.
Smith joined Youngstown State University in 2019 after serving as the head coach at Binghamton for five years. The campus is situated in northeastern Ohio, between Cleveland and Pittsburgh.
The YSU community and supporters of Brad Smith and his family are rallying together during this difficult time, offering condolences, prayers, and financial assistance to help them navigate through the aftermath of this devastating accident.
Note: The article contains a sensitive topic related to a tragic accident. Our thoughts and sympathies go out to Brad Smith and his family during this difficult time. If you wish to donate or provide support, please refer to the official GoFundMe page mentioned above.
