NEW LENOX, IL — Two alumni and varsity athletes from New Lenox have been identified as those killed in a crash on I-80 West early Sunday in Tinley Park.
Mason Santiago, 19, and Tyler Koscinski, 20, died in a crash with a semi on I-80 West in Tinley Park, the Will County Coroner’s Office said. Both were pronounced dead at 8:20 a.m. Sunday, the coroner’s office said. Santiago was a Providence Catholic High School alum, and Koscinski a graduate of Lincoln-Way West High School.
Santiago played as a linebacker/defensive back for the Celtics, leading them to the Class 4A title game in 2022; the team finished as runner-up.
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“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Mason Santiago, a 2023 graduate and a remarkable young man whose presence brightened our school community,” said Father John Merkelis, OSA, President of Providence Catholic. “When a young life is lost, it certainly causes all to pause and think about the fragility of life. This morning, the Providence Catholic community gathered in prayer and will continue to remember their family during Mass. His passing is an immense loss, and our thoughts, prayers, and support are with his family and friends during this profoundly difficult time.”
Santiago went on to play as a linebacker at Saint Xavier University in Chicago, and was majoring in sports communications as a sophomore.
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“The SXU Cougar football family is shocked and absolutely devastated by the passing of Mason Santiago,” said Coach Mike Feminis. “It’s just impossible to wrap your head around something like this. He was such a good kid, so well-liked by his teammates and coaches. Our deepest condolences go out to Mason’s family and loved ones.”
University President Keith Elder shared the news with the student community.
“It is with profound grief that I share news of the unexpected loss of SXU student-athlete Mason Santiago,” Elder wrote. “Mason was a sophomore studying sports communication and a cherished member of the SXU football team. Saint Xavier’s close-knit community is here to support students through this challenging time.”
Koscinski played varsity baseball and football at Lincoln-Way West, and continued on to Aurora University, where he joined the baseball team as an infielder.
“Tyler Koscinski was a great player and teammate for us in the 2022 & 2023 season,” said Lincoln-Way West Head Baseball Coach Jake Zajc. “Whether he was playing shortstop or pitching, he always gave it his all. His energy and clutch performances in the biggest games are moments we’ll never forget. We’re going to miss him a lot, but we’ll always treasure the incredible memories he gave us.”
The New Lenox Mustangs Youth Football and Cheerleading organization shared a fundraiser started in support of Koscinski’s family.
“Tyler Koscinski is a former Mustang player that brought hard work, dedication, and leadership to any level he played,” the organization said on social media. “A former QB, he led many winning teams, all while being a great young man. If you ask any of his former coaches/teammates, they will tell you how much fun he was to be around and coach. The world lost a good one too soon. Once a Mustang always a Mustang.”
Lincoln-Way District 210 officials commented on Koscinski’s death.
“District 210 is saddened by the tragic loss of Tyler Koscinski, a Lincoln-Way West 2023 graduate, this past weekend,” the District said. “Lincoln-Way West staff have been in touch with the family, offering condolences and support during this difficult time.”
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Illinois State Police are investigating the crash.
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