Sandalwood HS community mourns former NFL player Chris Payton-Jones after fatal crash
By Ashley French
Published on April 13, 2026.
Former Sandalwood High School football standout Chris Payton-Jones was killed in a crash on State Road 24 in Gainesville, Florida. His former vice principal at the school, Rhonda Motley, described him as joyful, respectful, and driven. Despite his professional football career, Motley noted that Payton remained connected to Sandalwoods and their support extended beyond the school. He also spent time working out with students and young athletes when he returned to Jacksonville.
Related Articles
Why the Knicks’ early playoff path could be a lot trickier than expected
The odds of a win over the Atlanta Hawks would have been better, as the teams prepare for their upcoming clash, and the outcome remains uncertain.
Nicky Smith: Colchester United double-winner dies aged 57
Colchester United's former midfielder Nicky Smith, who played for the club and later became a police officer, has died at 57.
Fight grades: UFC 327 raises the bar for upcoming events
UFC 327 delivered a memorable fight card featuring thrilling bouts like Carlos Ulberg's dramatic light heavyweight title win over Jiřs Procházka, while Cub Swanson's retirement and Pico's debut was notable.