ROCK HILL, SC (WBTV) – A popular baseball coach at a Rock Hill school died in an accident on his way to a game Saturday morning. Legion Collegiate Academy confirmed.
Jalen Benjamin, 29, was described as an “amazing young coach” by LCA athletic director Mike Drummond.
“His calm, gentle demeanor allowed him to build a special connection with his student-athletes,” Drummond said. “His relationship with his players was always uplifting and positive. We will truly miss his presence, his friendly demeanor and his big smile!”
The school announced that a scholarship would be established in Benjamin’s memory with the nickname “J-Rock.”
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, Benjamin was traveling east on Interstate 20 near Camden when his pickup truck was struck from behind by a semi-truck. After the impact, Benjamin’s truck struck a car, causing both vehicles to veer off the road and Benjamin’s truck to overturn. He died at the scene.
The funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, August 17th at 2 p.m. It will be held at Oakdale Baptist Church in Rock Hill.
To help with funeral costs, GoFundMe was set up.
Related: ‘A leader’: Watauga community gathers to honor beloved coach and teacher
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