Dillion Reidenauer LSU Death and Obituary – On the evening of February 26, 2025, a tragic accident on the Louisiana State University (LSU) campus resulted in the death of Dillon Reidenauer, an 18-year-old freshman pole vaulter, and 23-year-old motorcyclist Bodhi Linton. The incident, which occurred at the intersection of Nicholson Drive and South Quad Drive, shocked the LSU community and left many grieving the loss of a promising young athlete and student.
The accident transpired when a motorcycle traveling north on Nicholson Drive collided with a vehicle that was making a left turn onto South Quad Drive. The force of the impact caused both vehicles to catch fire, immediately engulfing them in flames. Emergency responders, including LSU Police and local firefighters, arrived swiftly at the scene. Despite their best efforts, both Reidenauer and Linton were pronounced dead on-site. Early reports suggest that both individuals lost consciousness almost immediately upon impact, making it clear that the collision was fatal for both parties involved.
Dillon Reidenauer, originally from Abita Springs, Louisiana, was a standout student-athlete at LSU. A graduate of Fontainebleau High School, Reidenauer had already made a name for herself in the world of pole vaulting. As a high school athlete, she earned second place in the LHSAA State Championships, clearing an impressive 3.64 meters (11 feet, 11.25 inches). Her personal best stood at 3.81 meters (12 feet, 6 inches). These achievements helped secure her place on the LSU Track & Field team, where she continued to excel.
In addition to her athletic prowess, Reidenauer was pursuing a degree in interior design at LSU. Her academic ambitions mirrored her athletic achievements, and she quickly gained a reputation for her hard work, dedication, and positive attitude. Recently, she had been honored as the MileSplit LA Girls’ Performer of the Week, a testament to her commitment to the sport and her unwavering passion for pole vaulting.
Her loss has had a profound impact on the LSU community. Coaches, teammates, and fellow students have come forward to express their sorrow, recounting memories of Reidenauer’s vibrant personality and relentless drive. Known for her positive spirit, Reidenauer was admired by many, not only for her athleticism but also for her ability to inspire and uplift those around her. The university has offered counseling services to help students and staff cope with the grief following the tragedy.
Investigators are working to determine the exact cause of the crash. Preliminary reports indicate that the motorcycle, driven by Linton, struck Reidenauer’s vehicle during the latter’s left-hand turn. As of now, authorities are waiting for further details and the completion of a thorough investigation into the incident.
The loss of Dillon Reidenauer has left an irreplaceable void in the LSU community. While her life was tragically cut short, her legacy as a talented athlete, a dedicated student, and a cherished friend will live on. The LSU family will continue to remember Reidenauer for her achievements, her spirit, and the impact she made on everyone she encountered.