Millersville University is mourning the tragic loss of Sydney Barnes, a junior and member of the women's golf team, who was fatally struck by a vehicle in Franklin County on Monday (October 13). Barnes, a 21-year-old biology major from Greencastle, Pennsylvania, made history at Millersville as the first women's golfer to record a hole-in-one.
Barnes was remembered by her coach as having "a wonderful personality and compassionate heart," bringing joy to her team. Her coach shared a fond memory of Barnes singing joyfully during a team trip, highlighting her love for music. The university acknowledged her dedication to athletics and academics, as she was also a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and recognized as a Women’s Golf Coaches Association All-American Scholar.
The cause of Barnes' death was determined to be due to multiple facial fractures and a traumatic brain injury, with the manner of death ruled accidental, according to officials. Millersville University released a statement expressing deep sorrow over her passing and praised her contributions to the university community. The investigation into the accident is ongoing.