Following his involvement in a fatal car accident on Wednesday night, Syracuse basketball coach Jim Boeheim is not expected to face any immediate legal ramifications, Onondaga County’s district attorney told Yahoo Sports.
William J. Fitzpatrick said law enforcement won’t be charging the hoops legend with any crime “unless something extraordinary or bizarre comes to our attention that we’re not aware of.”
Fitzpatrick called Boeheim “completely cooperative” with police said “all indications” are that the coach’s vehicle was traveling at “an appropriate speed for the conditions.” He also noted Boeheim’s breathalyzer test came up with no trace of alcohol.
However, though the 74-year-old won’t face legal charges, the family of the deceased man, 51-year-old Jorge Jimenez, could try to bring a civil case.
“In terms of if he’ll be sued, I can’t answer that,” Fitzpatrick said. “Whenever anyone asks me, ‘Can I sue?’ I say, ‘Stop, I don’t need to hear the rest of it.’ The answer is yes.”
He also said the longtime coach will have to deal with the psychological fallout of his role in the accident.
“Different people handle it different ways,” Fitzpatrick said. “I’ve seen it a lot in 40 years. He’s a good guy, and I’m sure it’s going to affect him.”
Boeheim has been the head coach at Syracuse for 43 years, led the program to five Final Fours, and won the national championship in 2003.
Syracuse athletic director John Wildhack released a statement on Thursday morning: “We extend our deepest condolences to all impacted by this tragic accident. Coach Boeheim is in contact with local authorities and cooperating fully. Out of respect for the grieving, there will be no further comment at this time.”
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