The Baltimore Ravens’ win against the New England Patriots in September was a comeback game for more than one reason. Not only did the Ravens come from behind with the help of two crucial touchdowns in order to narrowly win the game by just one point, but the person who caught those touchdown passes had just comeback from 24 devastating hours in his life.
The night before this exciting game, Torrey Smith, wide receiver for the Baltimore Ravens, lost his younger brother to a terrible motorcycle accident. Smith’s younger brother, Tevin Jones, passed away after a motorcycle accident late that Saturday night. Torrey Smith was awakened in the middle of the night with the news, and rushed home to be with his family: his mother and five younger siblings.
Late Saturday night, in Virginia, Tevin Jones was riding his motorcycle when he went off the road and struck a utility pole. According to the local authorities, there were no other vehicles involved. The accident remains under investigation, but it has been reported that alcohol played no role in the accident and Jones was wearing a safety helmet. It appears as if the driver simply lost control of the vehicle, reminding us all how very dangerous motorcycles can be, even when safety precautions are taken.
Nobody was sure whether or not Torrey Smith would suit up and play in the game Sunday night. He had just experienced a trauma, and had gotten little to no sleep. Smith decided to play after all. There were many reasons he decided to participate that day. First, he needed the support of his sports family around him, he needed an escape, and he felt that Tevin would have wanted him to play. Smith said of his decision to play, “I texted my mom when I got here. She was like, ‘Of course he’d want you to play.’ He admired me so much.”
After a touching moment of silence before the game, Smith and the Ravens certainly honored Tevin’s memory. People and families all across the country, who have been touched by motorcycle accidents, can certainly relate to this tragedy. This sad circumstance is a reminder that motorcycle safety is extremely important. Be sure to view our safety PSAs available to learn how you can further protect yourself. For any additional information regarding motorcycle accidents, please contact our offices.