By ASHLEY FOWLER & The REPORTER
WISH-TV | wishtv.com
Carmel High School is mourning the unexpected passing of head boys lacrosse coach Jack Meachum.
Meachum, 31, died in a vehicle crash Tuesday evening, Carmel Clay Schools confirmed to News 8.
Hamilton County Sheriff’s deputies were called around 7:30 p.m. Tuesday to a two-vehicle crash at State Road 38 and Six Points Road near Sheridan. Upon arrival, deputies found Meachum’s SUV in a ditch and a second vehicle on its roof on the side of the road.
Meachum died at the scene. The driver of the other vehicle, Brennan Smith, 26, Sheridan, died shortly after arriving at an Indianapolis hospital.
“For six years, Jack poured his heart and soul into the Carmel Lacrosse program, achieving the remarkable feat of securing a state title just last year. Jack’s impact reached far beyond the field, as he mentored our student-athletes and dedicated significant time to working with youth,” Carmel Clay Schools said in a letter to parents.
Staff and students at the high school are “heartbroken and devastated” by Meacham’s sudden passing, Carmel High School Athletics Director Jim Inskeep, said in a tweet.
“He made a significant impact on the lives of student-athletes and the Lacrosse Community in Indiana,” Inskeep wrote. “Jack was named the CHS Head Coach of the Year by his peers last week. Our prayers are with his wife, family, players, coaching staff, and friends.”
Meachum coached Carmel to its first boys lacrosse state championship in eight years when it beat Hamilton Southeastern 9-7 in the state championship game this past June at Roncalli.
In addition to his role at Carmel High School, Meacham served as the state chair for Maryland-based USA Lacrosse and was a member of the Indiana High School Lacrosse Association’s executive committee, according to his LinkedIn profile. He was a graduate of Carthage College and, more recently, the University of Indianapolis.
In a statement on Twitter, Carmel Men’s Lacrosse said, “We are saddened by the passing of Coach Jack Meachum. His impact on the Carmel Lacrosse program was undeniable and we will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and everyone of the Carmel Lacrosse family.”
Meacham was survived by his wife and family.
Visitation and funeral details will be shared at a later date. A GoFundMe campaign began Wednesday to help pay for funeral costs. You can donate at this link.
Carmel High School held a vigil for the coach at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Murray Stadium, the soccer field at 520 Stadium Drive.