St. Ignatius grad Hazel Krauss dies in Florida crash

Hazel Krauss, a 19-year-old freshman at the University of Florida and a former standout at Saint Ignatius College Prep, died over the weekend in a vehicle collision in Gainesville, Florida. Police reported that Krauss was killed when a car struck her as she crossed the street. The crash occurred after a driver swerved to avoid another vehicle, hitting a third car and Krauss in the process. No arrests have been made in connection with the specific collision, though a drunk driver was taken into custody at the scene for a separate issue.

Krauss was a well-known figure in the Chicago volleyball community before she started college. She wore number 41 and served as a captain for the Chicago Elite Volleyball team. Kayla Malec, a coach with the club, began working with Krauss when the player was 12 years old. Malec described Krauss as a dedicated athlete who prioritized the sport above all else. "Hazel was all about the business, all about volleyball, all about getting better," Malec said.

The news of Krauss' death reached her former high school team just as they were competing in the Girls Volleyball State Playoff regional tournament. Coaches and players at Saint Ignatius College Prep carried the loss with them during the competition. Malec, who has coached for nine years, called the timing "heartbreaking." She noted that losing a player so early in their collegiate career is a difficult experience for a coaching staff that views its athletes like family.

A nurse named Porchia Hardy happened to be driving by the accident scene and stopped to assist Krauss until first responders arrived. Hardy said she wanted to ensure Krauss was not alone in her final moments. "She wasn't alone and there were people there that cared for her," Hardy said. She emphasized that the bystanders tried to support Krauss' wellbeing during the emergency.

Saint Ignatius College Prep released a statement honoring Krauss' character. The school said she reflected the qualities they hope to see in their graduates, including intellectual curiosity, faith, and a sincere commitment to justice. The statement described her as a leader who showed a willingness to grow and a deep love for others.

Malec said she continues to process the loss by remembering the positive moments they shared on the court. She recalled the wins they achieved together and the strong bond they formed over several years of training. "I just want to give her a hug, but all I can do is remember all the good moments that we had with her," Malec said. She plans to keep coaching with the same motivation that Krauss inspired, aiming to create lasting positive experiences for current players.

The Gainesville police department confirmed that a drunk driver was arrested at the scene, but clarified that this individual was not involved in the crash that killed Krauss. The investigation into the collision itself is ongoing, with no suspects currently booked for the fatal strike.