It’s a heartbreaking day for the LSU athletics community as they mourn the loss of one of their most promising young athletes. Dillon Reidenauer, an 18-year-old freshman and LSU track and field standout pole vaulter, tragically lost her life in a car accident near the LSU campus. It became a piece of shocking news for her family, friends, and everyone close to her.

Watch What’s Trending Now!

She was a young woman described by those close to her as “sweet and kind.” Shocked and heartbroken by the incident, the coach expressed his grief by sharing a heartbreaking message.

Authorities confirmed Reidenauer was involved in a fatal crash at the intersection of Nicholson Drive and South Quad Drive. The crash happened around 9:07 pm when the car’s driver headed south on Nicholson Drive. The driver attempted to make a left turn onto South Quad Drive. During this moment, a motorcyclist, heading north to Nicholson Drive, rammed into the car.

The cops identified the motorcyclist killed as Bohdi Linton, 23. They then identified LSU track and field freshman student-athlete Dillon Reidenauer as the other victim in the crash. LSU track and field coach Dennis Shaver expressed the profound grief felt by the team and the wider LSU community.

Create a scholarship in her name

Host an annual memorial track event

Retire her jersey number

Build a memorial on campus

Do you think Jordan Chiles should continue fighting for her revoked bronze medal?

Yes, she deserves justice

No, it’s time to move on

Only if new evidence emerges

I’m not sure, but I support her decision

Here are the articles that inspired recent polls.

How do you feel about Jordan Chiles’ uncertain future in gymnastics?

Hopeful she’ll continue to compete

Concerned she might retire

Indifferent, it’s her personal choice

Excited to see what she decides

Do you support Masai Russell’s decision to skip the World Athletics Indoor Championships to focus on the outdoor season?

Yes, it’s a smart move for her career

No, she should compete in both

Maybe, but it depends on her long-term goals

I don’t care as long as she keeps winning

How should athletes like Masai Russell handle conflicting event schedules?

Prioritize major championships

Focus on personal career goals

Balance both as much as possible

Leave it to their coaches to decide

Here are the articles that inspired recent polls.

“We are devastated by the tragic passing of Dillon Reidenauer, who was taken from us much too soon,” Shaver said. Reidenauer was a member of LSU’s track and field team. Many considered her one of Louisiana’s top pole vaulters. Sadly, a life was taken away too soon.

She had an impressive high school career at Fontainebleau High School. The athlete finished second in the 2024 LHSAA State 5A Championships with a clearance of 3.64 meters. “Everyone in our LSU Track & Field family is keeping Dillon’s loved ones in our thoughts and prayers, as well as those of the other individual lost in the incident,” he further added.

As a junior, she placed fourth at the state meet, solidifying her reputation as a top-tier competitor in her sport.

In addition to her athletic talents, she took her education seriously. Reidenauer was pursuing a degree in interior design at LSU, a testament to her aspirations beyond the track. The LSU athletics department confirmed her academic pursuits, highlighting her well-rounded dedication to both sports and studies.

Reidenauer, a native of Abita Springs, Louisiana, leaves an everlasting legacy of excellence in athletics. She had a deep impact on those who knew her as well. Sadly, a bright future was tragically cut short.

Dillon Reidenauer’s journey from Fountainbleau to LSU track and

Join our 110K+ family of loyal track & field fans and don’t miss out on the stories that that truly matter in the world of athletics.

Fontainebleau High School’s spring signing class featured nine athletes continuing their athletic careers. It also included standout pole vaulter, Dillon Reidenauer. “I was talking to the coach for a bit, and we decided that I could be a part of the pole vault team,” Reidenauer said last year in an interview with Nola.com.

“I have an academic scholarship, so I got in touch with Coach Todd (Lane). I told him my PRs and kept him updated about them, and he told me I could walk on to the team. I’m excited,” she added.

Reidenauer earned bronze indoors at the LHSAA State Championship with a clearance of 3.71 meters (12’ 2”). She also held a high school personal-best clearance of 3.81 meters (12’ 6”) in pole vault, showcasing her immense talent and dedication.