Basketball assistant coach and physical education teacher Jared Jackson, aged 32, tragically lost his life in a car accident early Friday morning on Interstate 270 near Hilliard, Ohio.
The incident has left his family and the community heartbroken, mourning a dedicated mentor and friend.
According to the Hilliard police, Jared was driving a 2015 Chevy Cruze when he collided with a 2015 Honda CRV.
The impact sent the CRV crashing into a wall and flipping it over. Jackson’s vehicle veered off the road, struck a tree, and came to a stop.
Emergency services received the call about the crash at 1:47 a.m. Upon arrival, they pronounced Jared dead at the scene.
Jared Jackson, a 32-year-old physical education teacher and assistant basketball coach, is being remembered by family after his tragic death in a car crash on I-270 near Hilliard on Valentine's Day. https://t.co/MWL2YQMGBR
— FOX 28 Columbus (@fox28columbus) February 19, 2025
The driver of the CRV was taken to OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Born on May 22, 1992, to Eric and Olivia Jackson, Jared grew up in suburban Cleveland alongside his siblings, Aaron and Erica.
He was an active child who played various sports throughout his youth.
He moved to Columbus seven years ago after graduating from Bowling Green State University.
He began his career as a physical education teacher at Winterset Elementary School and Lincoln Park Elementary School.
Recently, He Had Expanded His Role By Becoming An Assistant Basketball Coach At Briggs High School
Jared was not just a teacher; he was a champion for youth. His dedication to education extended beyond the classroom as he volunteered for after-school programs and local youth sports leagues.
He aimed to inspire and mentor students in all aspects of their lives, embracing the spirit of service and leadership that Columbus City Schools spokesperson Tyler Carter highlighted in his tribute,
“Jackson was a dedicated champion for youth, and his life was a testament to the power of service and leadership. His passing leaves a void in the CCS community and beyond, but his legacy of shaping young lives will continue to inspire us, reminding us of the positive impact one person can have.”
Via The Columnus Disptach
The sudden loss of Jared has left an everlasting impression on those who knew him. His brother, Aaron, expressed the devastating impact of this tragedy.
“I didn’t grow up without having him in my life. Now we have to figure out how to do life without him. It’s going to be hard, but Jared wouldn’t want us to stop.’
Via Youtube
Cousin Chris Jackson shared fond memories of their time in Columbus, recalling Jared’s infectious laugh and passion for working with children: “Education is at the heart of our family,.”
He noted how deeply rooted their family values were in teaching and mentoring.
Jared’s center of the world revolved around his family, students, and players.
His dedication to shaping young lives through sports and education has created a legacy that will be felt throughout the community for years.
His dedication to mentoring students went beyond mere instruction; he hoped to pass on values guiding them throughout their lives.
