23-Year-Old College Swimmer Dies Suddenly

By
David Rufful
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OPINION | This article contains commentary that reflects the author's opinion.

23-year-old Ty Wells, a graduate of the University of Arizona, died suddenly. Wells swam for the University of Arizona.

An Arizona medical examiner is still working to determine the cause of death. The cause of his death is unknown.

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“Several people close to the program that rumors circulating that the death was caused by a motorcycle accident are untrue, and that the Arizona medical examiner is still working to determine the cause of death,” a report said.

Vice president and director of athletics Dave Heeke said, “On behalf of the entire University of Arizona community, I want to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Wells family along with Ty’s friends, teammates, classmates, and colleagues.”

“Ty was a tremendous young man who proudly represented the University of Arizona in the pool, classroom, and community. He was a light that shined bright in the lives of everyone he came across, and we will keep him and his loved ones in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.”

Ian Ingram wrote in a GoFundMe appeal, “Our Arizona Wildcat swimming family was devastated at the sudden passing of one of our most adored swimmers this past Friday.

“He was a guiding light to all of his friends and teammates as well as to all of us parents. He brought out the best in all of us and cared so deeply for all of his friends. His spirit was contagious, his smile lit up a room, and he was a big brother to so many.”

“He was an incredible young man who left his mark on all of us. He will be remembered by all of us with love in our hearts FOREVER!! We are all better for knowing this beautiful young man.”

During his time on the swim team Wells set school records in the 100 butterfly, 100 breaststroke, 50 freestyle, 200 and 400 freestyle relay, and 200 medley relay. The Arizona Desert Swarm said that Wells specialized in breaststroke at Arizona.

More on this story via Western Journal:

“During the 2022 Pac-12 Championships he set personal bests in the 50-, 100- and 200-meter breast, and last June competed in the USA Olympic Team Trials in Omaha for the 2022 Tokyo Games. His most recent meet was the Toyota US Open Championships Nov. 30-Dec. 3 in Charlotte, where he competed in the 100- and 200 breast.”

Wells earned a bachelor’s degree in health sciences and physiology in May 2022, according to the Star. He was planning on pursuing a career in physical therapy or sports medicine.