SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. — The Slippery Rock University community is mourning the loss of a student-athlete who passed away unexpectedly.
A joint statement from the university, its athletic department and The Rock football team announced that football student-athlete Jake Baker passed away Thursday.
“Jake was a great student, teammate and valued member of the Rock football family,” head coach Sean Latz said. “We are heartbroken by his passing and our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends.”
Baker grew up in Maryland and played his first season at Slippery Rock in 2023. He appeared in eight games as a defensive end and helped the Rock win the 2023 West Regional title and reach the NCAA II quarterfinals.
There are resources available for the grieving Slippery Rock University campus community. On-campus students can speak with someone from the Dean of Students' Office by calling 724-738-2121 or visiting the office Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Off-campus students can seek assistance through the Butler County Community Resource Center and can access crisis support 24/7 by calling 800-292-3866 or texting 62388.
Faculty and staff may contact the State Employee Assistance Program 24 hours a day at 800-692-7459.
download Free WPXI News App For breaking news alerts.
Follow Channel 11 News Facebook and twitter. | Watch WPXI Now
