The son of former Philadelphia Eagles star and current radio host Hugh Douglas was among two Morehouse College students who died in a car accident on Labor Day, the college and the radio station confirmed.
Hugh Douglas and his roommate Christion Files Jr., both members of the class of 2025, were involved in a “devastating” car crash that resulted in their “untimely passing”, according to a statement from Kevin Booker, vice president for student services and dean of the college.
The details of the crash have not been released by the authorities, but according to WSB-TV, a vehicle hit a power pole and overturned, killing the two people inside the car. The accident occurred around 5 p.m. local time near Atlanta.
A legacy of excellence and passion
Both Douglas and Files Jr. were studying business administration at Morehouse, a historically black men’s college. Douglas had a concentration in finance and Files Jr. had a concentration in marketing. They were also members of the Morehouse Business Association.
Douglas was an AltFinance Fellow and a Goldman Sachs fellow, and he recently completed a prestigious summer internship in Los Angeles, the college said. Files Jr. was a co-captain of the Morehouse track and field team and the media chair for the Junior Class Council. He also had a love for photography and videography. Booker said
During these difficult times, we must come together as a community to remember and celebrate the lives of Hugh and Christion. They leave a legacy of excellence, passion, and dedication that will continue to inspire us all.
Morehouse College said it would provide support for other students through counseling services and the student mental health center. It also extended its condolences to the families and friends of Douglas and Files Jr.
A father’s grief and gratitude
Hugh Douglas’ father, also named Hugh Douglas, was a first-round draft pick by the New York Jets in 1995. He played 10 seasons in the NFL, mostly with the Eagles, where he was a three-time Pro Bowler and an All-Pro defensive end. He was inducted into the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame in 2022.
He is currently a co-host of The Midday Show on 94.1 WIP in Philadelphia, a sports radio station that announced the passing of his son on Tuesday morning.
The elder Douglas posted a series of photos of his son on X, formerly known as Twitter, and wrote, “You were already a better man than me.”
He also thanked his fans and listeners for their support and prayers.
“I appreciate all the love that you guys are sending,” he said in an audio message posted on X. “It means more than you know.”
Tributes from friends and fans
The news of the tragic deaths of Douglas and Files Jr. shocked and saddened many people who knew them or admired them from afar.
Their classmates, teammates, professors, mentors, and alumni from Morehouse College expressed their grief and condolences on social media, remembering them as bright, talented, kind, and respectful young men who had promising futures ahead of them.
The Philadelphia Eagles also issued a statement on X, saying they were “heartbroken” by the loss of Douglas’ son.
“Our thoughts are with Hugh Douglas, his family, friends, former teammates, and everyone who knew his son,” the team said.
Many fans of the Eagles and the radio station also sent their messages of sympathy and solidarity to Douglas and his family.
Some fans shared their memories of meeting or interacting with his son, who often accompanied him to games or events.
One fan wrote on X: “I met your son at training camp years ago when he was just a little guy. He was so polite & respectful. You could tell how much he loved & looked up to you.”
Another fan wrote: “I’m so sorry for your loss Hugh. I remember meeting your son at an Eagles game when he was young. He had your smile & personality. Praying for you & your family.”
FAQs
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Who is Hugh Douglas?
Hugh Douglas is a former NFL player who played for the New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles, and Jacksonville Jaguars from 1995 to 2004. He was a defensive end who made three Pro Bowls and one All-Pro team. He is also a member of the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame. He is currently a radio host on 94.1 WIP in Philadelphia.
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Who is Hugh Douglas’ son?
Hugh Douglas’ son is also named Hugh Douglas. He was a student at Morehouse College in Atlanta, where he studied business administration with a concentration in finance. He was an AltFinance Fellow and a Goldman Sachs fellow. He died in a car crash on Labor Day along with his roommate Christion Files Jr.
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How did Hugh Douglas’ son die?
Hugh Douglas’ son died in a car accident that occurred around 5 p.m. local time on Labor Day near Atlanta. According to WSB-TV, a vehicle hit a power pole and overturned, killing the two people inside the car. The details of the crash have not been released by the authorities.
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How old was Hugh Douglas’ son?
Hugh Douglas’ son was 19 years old. He was a member of the class of 2025 at Morehouse College.
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Who is Christion Files Jr.?
Christion Files Jr. was Hugh Douglas’ son’s roommate and friend at Morehouse College. He also studied business administration with a concentration in marketing. He was a co-captain of the Morehouse track and field team and the media chair for the Junior Class Council. He also had a love for photography and videography. He died in the same car crash as Hugh Douglas’ son on Labor Day.
