Markel Byrd, New Mexico Safety, Dies at 20

New Mexico sophomore defensive back Markel Byrd died in a single-car accident Tuesday that also left his girlfriend in critical condition. He was 20.

The Lobos' official athletics site confirmed the news. The report notes they were driving home for the holidays when the vehicle suffered a blowout and they were both ejected. The release also includes a statement from head coach Bob Davie.

"This is an absolute tragedy. Markel Byrd was an outstanding person and student-athlete and we will miss him," Davie said. "I was with the family late Tuesday night and obviously they are devastated. Our thoughts and prayers go to them. Markel will forever be a member of our family."

Lobos linebacker Dakota Cox also sent along his condolences after receiving the news:

Byrd was an emerging talent for New Mexico. He made steady progress after redshirting in 2013 and finished the 2015 season with 44 total tackles, three interceptions, two tackles for loss and a sack as a top performer in the secondary.

His best performance came in the team's marquee road victory over Boise State on Nov. 14. He tallied 11 tackles, two passes defended and an interception in the 31-24 victory. JJ Buck of KNML passed along an ESPN video of the safety's game-saving tackle to end it:

The Lobos finished their season with a 45-37 loss to Arizona in the New Mexico Bowl on Saturday. Byrd recorded three tackles in the contest.