Spencer Webb tragically passed away on Wednesday, July 13, after hitting his head during a cliff-diving accident just west of Triangle Lake in Lane County, less than a mile from Eugene, located at the University of Oregon. As per reports by Ducks Wire, the name and identity of the player were not initially released as next of kin wasn't notified, but the first report came on Wednesday, July 13, afternoon at around 4 pm.
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office in a press release about the incident posted on Facebook, “The Lane County Sheriff’s Office responded to the rock slides just a short distance west of Triangle Lake at approximately 2:30 pm after receiving the report of an injured person. Upon arrival, deputies learned that a 22-year-old male recreating in the area fell and struck his head. Bystanders and responding paramedics were unable to revive him. Lane County Sheriff Search and Rescue personnel responded to assist with bringing him back to the roadway as he was approximately 100 yards down a steep trail." The post concluded: "There is no evidence of foul play and his death appears to be accidental. The victim’s name is being withheld at this time pending next of kin notification."
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Spencer Webb's childhood and career
He reportedly came from a broken family and had been raised by older brother Cody. He was all set to be a part of the Oregon offense in the 2022 season, making his fourth season with the Ducks. Webb was a projected starter for the Ducks this fall. On Jun 25, 2018, he had enrolled at the Oregon Ducks.
Sacramento Bee in a profile from 2016 reports how Webb used football to build back up his shattered confidence as he bounced from home to home growing up. Christian Brothers gave him wings. In games, he ran over defenders if he didn’t race past them as a national 4-star recruit. “I grew up faster than a lot of kids,” Webb told The Bee. “I never really had a mom or dad in my life. They chose to do other things, so it’s been me and my brother (Cody Webb). I had a dream, he had a dream, and we’re making that dream happen.”
Webb was raised by his aunt, uncle and grandparents in Solano County or West Sacramento and midway through high school, Cody, became his legal guardian, and raised him along with wife Alicia. Christian Brothers football coach Larry Morla was there when Webb was a senior in the fall of 2016. He recalled how committed Webb was to football, to being a good student and a good leader. “He had his whole life to live,” Morla told The Bee, adding that Webb stopped by Christian Brothers last month to talk to student-athletes and to offer encouragement on the rewards of football. “He always came back to CB when he was in town. He was a once-in-a-generation talent.”
'RIP Spencer'
His sudden death sent shockwaves to many. One of them wrote, "Unbelievable news… RIP Spencer Webb… gone too soon. Thoughts and prayers for his family and loved ones." Another said, " Rest in Paradise @spencer_webb_18 One of my favorite memories, shot this TD vid in 19’ of Spence at Husky Stadium. Praying for his entire family, all his friends and the team for a peace that passes understanding during this absolutely tragic and heartbreaking time."
Calling Webb a supportive teammate, one said, "Heartbroken by the news of Spencer Webb's passing. Not only was he a suburb athlete but he was such a supportive teammate who wanted better for his teammates than himself. I talked to him this spring and it felt like he had a new appreciation for football and life. RIP Spencer."
Unbelievable news… RIP Spencer Webb… gone too soon. Thoughts and prayers for his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/czu2UNOWT0
— FQOregon (@FQDucks) July 14, 2022
Rest in Paradise @spencer_webb_18 :pray::skin-tone-4::broken_heart::cry:
— Progrum Guy:duck:aka :part_alternation_mark:icah (@godux1987) July 14, 2022
One of my favorite memories, shot this TD vid in 19’ of Spence at Husky Stadium.
Praying for his entire family, all his friends and the team for a peace that passes understanding during this absolutely tragic and heartbreaking time :pray::skin-tone-4: pic.twitter.com/P2fHgel1yU
Heartbroken by the news of Spencer Webb's passing. Not only was he a suburb athlete but he was such a supportive teammate who wanted better for his teammates than himself. I talked to him this spring and it felt like he had a new appreciation for football and life. RIP Spencer :broken_heart: pic.twitter.com/VNIB426i0y
— Dylan Reubenking (@drksportsnews) July 14, 2022
The Oregon coach Dan Lanning, under whom Webb got trained, remembered Webb by saying, "So full of life in every moment of the day. Your smile and energy will be missed Spencer. I love you!”
🙏 So full of life in every moment of the day. Your smile and energy will be missed Spencer. I love you!
— Dan Lanning (@CoachDanLanning) July 14, 2022
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According to On3 Consensus, the young player started his sports journey in Eugene as a four-star recruit and the No 11 tight end prospect in the country from the class of 2018. Going by reports, in three seasons with the Ducks, Webb played in 20 games, catching 31 passes for 296 yards and four touchdowns.