In Loving Memory of Payton Cook

In Loving Memory of Payton Cook

The Tusculum University community, along with loved ones across two countries, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 19-year-old Payton Cook, a freshman student whose promising life was tragically cut short following a car crash on Friday evening.

According to a Tennessee Highway Patrol report, the accident occurred when 18-year-old Hagan Windsor was driving a 2018 Honda Pilot with Payton as a passenger. The vehicle ran off the right side of the road, traveling roughly 80 feet before striking a tree on the passenger side. Payton suffered fatal injuries in the crash, while Windsor sustained injuries and is facing a charge of driving on roadways laned for traffic. Local authorities continue to investigate the incident.

Payton, originally from Alberta, Canada, had come to Tennessee to pursue both his education and his passion. He was a freshman at Tusculum University, majoring in business administration, and a valued member of the university’s lacrosse team. Friends, teammates, and faculty describe him as dedicated, kind-hearted, hardworking, and full of potential—a young man who carried both humility and drive, and who brought warmth to every team huddle and classroom setting.

Tusculum University officials shared that the loss of Payton is “devastating news for all of us and, most importantly, for his personal family.” They expressed their deepest condolences to the Cook family, assuring them that the entire university stands beside them in grief. The Office of Student Affairs and the campus ministry team are actively offering support to students, staff, and faculty as the community tries to cope with the immense sorrow left in the wake of this tragedy.

The university also confirmed that four other students were injured in the accident. Fortunately, their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, and they are currently receiving medical care. Officials have urged the public to be respectful and sensitive during this time of mourning, asking that no unconfirmed information be shared while law enforcement continues its investigation.

On social media, Tusculum University shared a message of comfort, offering words of peace in a moment of darkness by quoting Psalm 46:1:

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

As the campus gathers to remember Payton, his teammates recall his infectious smile, his unwavering encouragement on and off the field, and the brotherhood formed through long practices, travel, and shared dreams. Friends talk about his gentle nature, his quick willingness to lend support, and the way he made every space a little brighter. Professors and staff reflect on his determination, curiosity, and the respectful manner in which he carried himself as both a student and young adult forging his future.

For his family in Alberta, the grief is immeasurable. Payton crossed borders to build a life and career he believed in, and he did so with courage, excitement, and hope. The distance between home and campus now carries a different weight, but his memory will continue to bridge it—with love, honor, and the countless moments he shared with those who knew him.

In the coming days, as teammates, classmates, and faculty gather to honor Payton’s life, they do so knowing that his impact—though formed in only 19 years—was profound. His journey touched many, and his presence will not be forgotten.

May the Cook family, his friends, and the Tusculum University community find comfort in shared memories, in faith, and in the strength of one another. And may Payton’s spirit live on in every heart he touched.

Rest in peace, Payton Cook. You will forever be remembered, loved, and missed.