NEW ROCHELLE, NY – Michael Haynes, a 6-7 forward from Chicago, IL who signed with the Iona College men’s basketball program for the 2012-13 season, was shot and killed on Thursday evening. He was 22 years old.
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Haynes was shot dead while trying to break up a fight over a stolen necklace near his home. Police said he was shot in the wrist, chest and lower back about 5:10 pm in the 11600 block of South Vincennes Avenue. Acquaintances dropped him off at MetroSouth Medical Center in Blue Island, where he was declared dead about 6:25 pm, the newspaper added.
“The Iona family is devastated with the news on Michael’s passing,” said head coach Tim Cluess. “His passion, energy and excitement for his opportunity this year makes this tragedy even more upsetting. Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
Nicknamed “Big Mike”, Haynes graduated from Fenger Academy in Chicago, IL and was coming to New Rochelle from Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa, IA. He averaged 6.9 points and 4.5 rebounds last season for Indian Hills. His coach, Barret Peery, described Haynes to SNY.tv as a strong, powerful athlete around the rim who ran the floor well and defended multiple positions.
“The Iona Community is deeply saddened by the news of the death of Michael Haynes,” said Iona College President, Dr. Joseph E. Nyre. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Michael and his family.”