Iona Recruit Michael Haynes Shot And Killed In Front Of Chicago Home
Iona recruit Michael Haynes was shot and killed outside of his home on Thursday, according to authorities.
Tragedy came to Iona College’s basketball program on Thursday night when Michael Haynes, one of head coach Tim Cluess’ new recruiting class, was shot and killed outside of his home in Chicago, Illinois at 22-years-old, reports NY Daily. Haynes was reportedly shot while trying to break up a fight, and was shot in the wrist, chest, and lower back. He was declared dead at a hospital over an hour later, according to ESPN.
“We’re shocked and deeply saddened by this news,” Indian Hills coach Barret Peery said. “He was such a great kid and a great member of our team. Michael was a great friend to all his teammates and a great kid overall. He’ll truly be missed.”
Haynes had originally committed to the University of Texas-El Paso, but never played for the Miners. He was ranked the No. 11 recruit in Illinois following an impressive junior season at Washington High School, when he averaged 17 points and 22 rebounds. Last season at Indian Hills CC in Ottumwa, Iowa, he averaged 6.9 points and 4.5 rebounds.
“It’s just so hard,” Coach Cluess said. “I don’t know how to describe it. Once you got to know Michael you just couldn’t wait to coach him. He came from a very rough area in Chicago and he just wanted to make a better life for himself. He was just looking for a chance to change his life.”
Haynes was a part of Iona’s seven-member recruiting class, also including DaSean Anderson, Grant Ellis, A.J. English, DaShawn Gomez, David Laury and Brandon Parga, according to the NY Post.
His killer is still at large.
