Beloved Bethpage Student-Athlete Vincent Cavaliere, 20, Tragically Killed in Car Accident — Community Mourns the Loss of Assumption University Football Star and Hometown Hero

Bethpage, NY – The tight-knit community of Bethpage is reeling after the sudden and heartbreaking death of 20-year-old Vincent Cavaliere, a beloved student-athlete and rising star at Assumption University. Vincent was tragically killed in a car accident on the evening of Saturday, May 10, 2025, leaving behind grieving family members, teammates, classmates, and friends who are now struggling to come to terms with the loss of a young man remembered for his passion, drive, and infectious spirit.

According to preliminary reports, the accident occurred late Saturday night while Vincent was driving back to campus after visiting family and friends on Long Island. Authorities have not yet released full details of the crash, which is still under investigation, but confirmed that Vincent was the only person in the vehicle and died at the scene. The cause of the accident is currently unknown, and officials are awaiting results from a full investigation, including toxicology reports and vehicle forensics.

Vincent Cavaliere, known affectionately as “Vince” to those who knew him best, was a 2023 graduate of Bethpage High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically. He earned a scholarship to Assumption University in Worcester, Massachusetts, where he was pursuing a degree in business administration while playing as a standout linebacker for the university’s football team, the Greyhounds. Coaches and teammates describe him as a dedicated leader both on and off the field — someone who embodied integrity, humility, and a fierce competitive spirit.

“Vincent wasn’t just a great athlete — he was a great human being,” said Assumption University head coach Brian Kelley in a statement released Sunday morning. “He brought light and energy to every practice, every game, and every interaction. He was the kind of person you wanted on your team — in football and in life. We are absolutely devastated.”

Bethpage High School held a candlelight vigil at the school’s football field on Sunday night, where hundreds of community members gathered to remember Vincent and offer their condolences to the Cavaliere family. Former teammates, teachers, and classmates took turns sharing stories and memories, painting a picture of a young man who was not only deeply talented but also kind-hearted, hardworking, and always willing to lend a hand to someone in need.

“Vincent was one of the good ones,” said John DeSantis, a former coach and mentor. “He never gave up, never made excuses, and always encouraged others to be better. This is a tragic loss, and our hearts are broken.”

His family, who have asked for privacy as they process the unimaginable loss, released a brief statement on Sunday:
“We are heartbroken beyond words. Vincent was our light, our pride, and our joy. He lived his life with purpose, passion, and love. We ask for prayers and support as we mourn our beautiful boy.”

Friends described Vincent as someone who made everyone feel like they mattered. Whether on the football field, in the classroom, or just hanging out with friends, he was known for his quick smile, his unwavering loyalty, and a sense of humor that lifted the spirits of everyone around him.

“He was the kind of friend who would drive hours just to support you at your game, your performance, or even just because you were having a bad day,” said one of his close friends, Amanda Russo. “He cared deeply and made you feel like you belonged.”

At Assumption University, grief counseling services have been made available to students and staff, with university president Francesco Cesareo issuing a campus-wide letter expressing sorrow and solidarity:
“Vincent Cavaliere was a bright light in our community. His passing is a profound loss, and we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, teammates, and friends. In his memory, we must continue to support one another as a campus united in grief and love.”

Plans are underway for a memorial scholarship in Vincent’s name, which will be awarded to student-athletes from Bethpage High School who demonstrate excellence in academics, athletics, and character — three traits that Vincent embodied throughout his life.

A funeral Mass will be held later this week at St. Martin of Tours Roman Catholic Church in Bethpage. The Cavaliere family is expected to release details once arrangements are finalized. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Vincent Cavaliere Memorial Scholarship Fund.

As the Bethpage and Assumption University communities continue to grapple with this tragic loss, one thing is clear — Vincent Cavaliere’s legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he so freely gave.