Former BYU running back Ryan Folsom was killed in a car accident on Jan. 7.
Folsom was driving south on Interstate 5 in California to an interview for a medical residency position when a car driving the wrong direction collided head-on with his car.
Folsom leaves behind his two sons and his wife, Lauren, who is expecting their third child later this month.
Folsom was a Cougar running back for the 2007, 2010 and 2011 seasons. Folsom still holds the record for “the 8th-longest run from scrimmage in BYU history,” according to a Twitter post by Greg Wrubell.
Many former BYU football players have shown their love and support to Folsom and his family over social media.
I vividly remember going up against Ryan back in 2007 everyday at practice. He had a huge smile anytime you saw him. Prayers go out to his wife and kids and family… https://t.co/EpgS1te3yT
— David Nixon (@D_Nixon) January 8, 2018
My heart is broken from the news of losing a friend. Ryan Folsom was killed yesterday in a car accident. He leaves behind his expectant wife and 2 kids. Please donate what you can to support his family at this time. He just finished med school: https://t.co/8Ds5JA5oYQ
— James Lark (@jlark_3) January 9, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Folsom family after the tragic passing of former Cougar running back Ryan Folsom yesterday.
If you wish to contribute to the Ryan Folsom Memorial Fund: https://t.co/N1E5K55bS4
— BYU Football (@BYUfootball) January 8, 2018
Former BYU defensive lineman Vic So’oto shared his condolences on Twitter.
“Heartbreaking news. Ryan never had a bad day. He was always happy and worked his (butt) off. The Folsom family will be in our thoughts and prayers,” said So’oto.
Long-time family friend Ian Cropper created a gofundme page to help support Folsom’s wife and children. So far, well over the $200,000 goal has been raised in support of the family.
“(Ryan) loved the Avengers and anything super-hero related, perhaps because he loved the idea of filling that role in any capacity. He loved being the superhero for his two boys, he loved the idea of being a doctor and saving lives,” Cropper said. “He looked in your eyes when you talked to him, and had a laugh that made you feel like you were the funniest person in the world.”
