The Tampa Bay Buccaneers donated $10,000 to an Oklahoma family after 18-year-old Connor Barba, a fan of Baker Mayfield, was tragically killed in a car accident on the way to a game at Arrowhead Stadium. Barba and his mother, Megan Barnett, were en route to watch the Bucs play the Kansas City Chiefs to celebrate Barba’s upcoming birthday. However, they were involved in a head-on collision in Kansas that claimed Barba’s life and left his mother seriously injured. The Bucs also announced that Mayfield, Barba’s favorite player, and his wife plan to reach out to the family to offer support.
The tragic accident occurred when a vehicle traveling southbound on U169 unexpectedly turned into the northbound lane and collided with Barba’s vehicle head-on, resulting in the deaths of Barba, the driver of the other vehicle, and injuries to Barnett. A third vehicle was also involved in the crash, but the driver was unharmed. Mayfield expressed his condolences in a statement, offering thoughts and prayers to Barnett and her family during this difficult time. He expressed his sadness over not being able to meet Barba and the impact of his death on him as a new parent.
A fundraising campaign has been set up on behalf of the family, as Barnett remains in the ICU in Tulsa with severe injuries that require extensive recovery. Barba’s uncle, Collin Barnett, shared that Connor’s quick thinking at the time of the crash potentially saved his mother’s life. He explained that Connor swerved and braked hard to protect his mother from the impact, showing heroic actions that ultimately cost him his life. The outpouring of support from across the country has been a source of strength for Barnett as she faces a long road to recovery.
The Kansas Highway Patrol crash log revealed the details of the accident, with the investigation ongoing to determine the exact cause of why the other vehicle veered into Barba’s lane. The tragic loss of Connor Barba has deeply affected the community and the Buccaneers organization, prompting them to donate to the family in this time of need. The support from Mayfield, as well as the Buccaneers, has been a source of comfort for Barnett and her family as they cope with the loss of Connor and navigate through the challenges of his absence. The memory of Connor’s bravery and sacrifice will continue to inspire those who knew him and those impacted by his story.
Mayfield emphasized the heartbreak of the situation and the difficulty of finding words to provide true comfort in such a tragic time. He expressed his hope for Barnett’s full recovery and encouraged her to draw strength from the support she is receiving. The impact of Connor’s actions during the crash, putting his mother’s safety first even at the cost of his own life, reflects his character and selflessness. The memories of Connor’s love for his favorite player, Mayfield, and the support from the Buccaneers and the broader community will serve as a reminder of the impact Connor had on those around him and the legacy he leaves behind. The tragic accident serves as a reminder to cherish loved ones and the moments shared with them, as life can change in an instant.
