A recent graduate of Pittsburgh Allderdice High School, Jakob Sirlin, passed away in a devastating car crash on Beechwood Boulevard in Pittsburgh’s Point Breeze neighborhood on early Thursday morning, July 17, 2025, at the age of 18.
Reportedly, the crash happened around 1 a.m. in the 1200 block of Beechwood Boulevard.
Besides Jakob Sirlin, three other teens in the car were injured in the accident.
Pittsburgh police, firefighters, and EMS responded to reports of a single-vehicle rollover as soon as possible, and three teens, i.e., the driver and two passengers, managed to get out of the flipped car.
However, Jakob was trapped inside and was pronounced dead at the scene. One of the injured teens was taken to the hospital in critical condition, while the other two were stable.
Jakob Sirlin is survived by his parents, Sarah and Jerome, and his brother Nate Sirlin.
Most heartbreakingly, his death occurred just a month after he graduated from Allderdice High School in June 2025.
The soccer player Jakob was a standout student and athlete at Allderdice High School.
He was a valedictorian, a talented soccer player, and had recently received an award from the Jewish Sports Hall of Fame.
Above all, Jakob was set to attend the Rhode Island School of Design in the fall.
Following his tragic demise, social media was flooded with tributes and condolences.
“He taught me to live in the moment and appreciate life,” said Jack Cohen, a longtime friend who played soccer and basketball with Jakob.
His soccer coach, David Thyberg, called him a “scrappy defender” and said the tight-knit Allderdice community is heartbroken over his loss.
Police believe speed was a factor in the crash, which is still under investigation.
Allderdice High School paid its tribute, writing:
Jakob was a member of the Allderdice Boys Soccer Team for all four years of High School. We send our very deepest condolences to the Sirlin family. Jakob will be dearly missed.
Allderdice High School
Thus far, details surrounding his funeral services have yet to be published.
During this difficult time, we can’t imagine what Jakob’s family is going through. We pray for the strength of his parents, friends, and extended family.
Rest In Peace, Jakob Sirlin!
