LIVONIA (WWJ) - Tributes have overflowed social media in memory of 19-year-old Livonia native, Jack Swamba, after he was identified as the motorcyclist who died in an East Lansing crash on Wednesday.
Swamba was a freshman at Michigan State University this fall and a 2022 graduate of Detroit Catholic Central High School in Novi where he served as an assistant captain of the school's 2022 state champion hockey team.
"It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jack Swamba (22), former CC hockey player and assistant captain of the 21-22 state championship team," the school's hockey program posted to social media. "Please keep Jack and his family in your prayers."
A rosary vigil was held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14 at the school off 27225 Wixom Road.
State Champions Michigan shared a highlight video of Swamba scoring a goal during a pivotal match-up: "Sending our deepest condolences to the Detroit Catholic Central hockey family as they mourn the loss of their beloved 2022 graduate, Jack Swamba. Here's a cherished memory of Jack scoring a goal during the 2022 Division 1 State Championship game victory over Brighton."
Catholic Central's football program posted a tribute on X, calling Swamba, "one of the toughest and hardest working individuals we have ever had the pleasure of calling a Shamrock."
The East Lansing Police Department said they're continuing to investigate the fatal crash involving Swamba, which occurred just before 9 p.m. on Oct. 11 where Abbot Road crosses Lake Lansing Road, a few miles north of MSU's campus.
According to their preliminary investigation, an SUV traveling northbound on Abbot Road made a left-hand turn in front of Swamba and the two collided.
Swamba was pronounced get at the scene.