The college baseball community is mourning the tragic death of Tomassino “Tommy” Offer, an 18-year-old Wheaton College student who was killed when a freight train struck his car in Wheaton, Illinois, on Sunday, October 11.
The fatal collision occurred at approximately 10:15 a.m. near Main Street and Front Street, about 25 miles west of Chicago.
Bryce James opens Arizona exhibition with a first-possession 3-pointer
According to a Metra spokesperson, Offer had stopped at the railway crossing while a westbound freight train passed. Once it cleared the crossing, he began driving forward, but an eastbound freight train struck his vehicle.
His sudden death has devastated teammates, classmates and friends, prompting heartfelt tributes from those who knew him as a dedicated athlete and a compassionate young man.
Wheaton College baseball coach Matt Husted shared the team’s grief in a statement released through the university.
“Our team is grieving and our hearts are heavy as we grieve alongside Tommy’s family and friends,” Husted said.
He described Offer as sincere, joyful and fiercely competitive, qualities that made him a valued member of the baseball team. The coach also highlighted the teenager’s ability to make others feel appreciated, explaining that he developed meaningful relationships throughout the college community.
Friends and schools unite to honor teen’s memory
According to ABC Eyewitness News, Offer was originally from Michigan and had attended church on the morning of the collision. Reverend Santos Castillo of St. Michael Catholic Church recalled seeing the teenager shortly before he left for Chicago with a friend.
Castillo remembered Offer waving goodbye, reflecting on how an ordinary farewell had become their final encounter.
“I definitely saw him before he left, and he just waved at me, and together with his friend Joe, they were here together, and who would have known that was the last time he’d be in church,” Castillo said.
Students from Wheaton College and the surrounding community gathered on Monday to pay tribute to Offer.
The university also held a separate memorial on Sunday evening, allowing students and friends to come together and support one another during an incredibly difficult time.
Notre Dame Preparatory School in Pontiac, Michigan, where Offer previously studied, also released a statement remembering its former student.
“Tomassino Offer was an outstanding student and an even better young man,” the school said, highlighting the affection he received from teachers and classmates.
Offer had built friendships through both baseball and soccer. His former school also celebrated his sporting achievements, including being part of a soccer team that won a state championship.
His influence extended across classrooms, sports teams, church and college life, leaving behind a wide network of people now struggling to come to terms with his death.
At just 18, Offer had a future filled with possibilities, making the loss particularly painful for his family, friends and teammates.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.