Former District 228 Basketball Star Killed in Michigan Crash

The Hillcrest High School community was stunned Sunday by the loss of one of its former standout girls basketball players.

Shannise Heady, of Hazel Crest and a junior at Eastern Michigan University, was killed along with classmate ordan Hopkins early Sunday morning when the car Heady was driving crossed the center line and struck another vehicle in Ypsilanti Township, Michigan, just before 1 a.m. Sunday, Tribune Media reports.

“This is a tragic loss,” said Eastern Michigan University President Susan Martin. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Jordan’s and Shannise’s families and friends at this difficult time.”

The 21-year-old had attended Seton Hall University prior to transferring to EMU in January 2013. While attending Hillcrest, Heady contributed to a four-year 116-16 record and two second-place finishes in Class 3A, Tribune Media reports.

“Obviously this is one of our toughest days as a program and for the entire Eagle Nation as we mourn the loss of Shannise,” said EMU Head Women’s Basketball Coach Tory Verdi in a statement on the school’s website. “No words can describe the feelings right now as we are truly devastated to learn of her passing. Shannise was not only an inspiration to all of us, but she brought energy and liveliness to our team. She was a true joy to coach and has left an everlasting impression not only on me but the rest of our team as well. She will be missed greatly.”

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Shannise and have tremendous empathy for the families,” Vice President/Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Heather Lyke added. “Our prayers for peace are with them. Shannise lit up the room with her personality and smile and will be missed in our locker room and the department.”

The accident remains under investigation.

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