William Hardrick death: Suspect charged with murder after Austin Peay player's accident

On Tuesday, Austin Peay defensive back William Hardrick died in a car crash. Just two days later, the New York Post reported that a man named John McAdams had been charged with murder in relation to Hardrick’s untimely death.

McAdams is also reportedly being charged with leaving the scene of an accident and DUI. According to a WAFF report, court documents showed that McAdams recorded a 0.09% blood alcohol content during his field sobriety test.

“We are truly saddened by the passing of William Hardrick, a new member of our football program and the Austin Peay family,” APSU Vice President and Director of Athletics Gerald Harrison said, via press release. “All of our thoughts and prayers are with the Hardrick Family today. We will do everything we can to support his friends, family, and teammates at this time.”

Hardrick had transferred to Austin Peay this offseason after spending two years at Miami (OH). While with the Redhawks, Hardrick made 18 appearances, recording 32 tackles, five pass breakups and one forced fumble.

Before transferring to Miami (OH), Hardrick began his career at Mississippi State. Hardrick played in one game during his true freshman season and redshirted his second year with the program.

“William Hardrick was an exceptional young man, and our team is heartbroken by his loss,” Austin Peay football head coach Jeff Faris said. “He made everyone around him better and has made a real impact both on and off the field. We lift up the Hardrick family in prayer as we grieve this tragic loss with them.”

WAFF reported that Hardrick was on his way home from school when the crash occurred. He was reportedly driving southbound on I-65 before the accident occurred, and his car flipped several times, leading to his death.

Hardrick played high school football at Minor (AL), where he was a three-star prospect. He was the and No. 74 player from his state and No. 166 cornerback overall in the 2021 recruiting cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Miami (OH) made a post on X to honor Hardrick’s life and time with the program: “The Miami Football family mourns the loss of former player, William Hardrick. Will brought a light to every room he walked into, our thoughts are with his family.”