A 16-year-old Alexandria High School student was killed last week in a single-car accident — a tragedy that has the entire community reeling.

According to a story from the Calhoun Journal, Jeremy “Ryan” Lambert, an Alabama wrestling state champion, was driving a 2007 Jeep Cherokee about six miles east of Ohatchee when the vehicle hit an embankment and overturned.

Investigators revealed Lambert was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash and was ejected from the SUV, succumbing to his injuries after being taken to the hospital.

The program posted a message on their Facebook page in memoriam of him.

“Alexandria Wrestling lost one of our own,” the post said. “Ryan wasn’t just a state champion he was the kind of kid who could walk into a room and make it better.”

“No matter if it was in the wrestling room, at a tournament, or just being around the team, he was always cutting up, laughing, and making people smile. He competed hard, represented Alexandria with pride, and left an impact that went way beyond wins and medals. You’ll always be part of this wrestling family, Ryan. Once a Valley Cub, always a Valley Cub.”

His principal and coach also weighed in, expressing shock and tremendous sadness at the loss of Lambert.

“The Alexandria High School family lost a tremendous student, teammate, and friend with the passing of Ryan Lambert,” Alexandria principal Derek Cobb said in a statement. “He was such a respectful young man who was greatly loved by his classmates, teammates, teachers, and friends.”

“He will be forever remembered as a state wrestling champion at Alexandria High School, but above all the championships and medals, he was one of the most pleasant individuals to be around. His passion, spirit, and determination in the classroom and on the wrestling mat has left an indelible mark at AHS. Our hearts are hurting during this difficult time. We appreciate the outpouring of love and support from the Alexandria community, as well as our neighboring communities throughout the state. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lambert family as they navigate through this time of grief.”

“Absolutely heartbreaking and still in disbelief,” said Frank Hartzog, who had announced his retirement as Alexandria’s wrestling coach after the season came to a close. “My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten.”

According to the story, Lambert had just completed his sophomore year at Alexandria where he won the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 1A-4A 120-pound championship final in February in Huntsville and helped Alexandria to a state-runner-up finish.