Tragic Loss of Newberry High School Football Player
Gainesville, Fla. – The community is in shock after the tragic death of Malachi Lancaster, an 18-year-old senior at Newberry High School, who was killed in a hunting accident on Sunday. According to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred off Williston Road, located just south of Gainesville.
Reports indicate that 911 callers described the incident as a hunting accident. Malachi was known not only for his dedication to football but also for being the homecoming king this year. The news has left friends and family heartbroken, with many taking to social media to express their sorrow. One mourner shared, “This really hurt me to my heart 💔 in and out of sleep all night wishing I was just a bad dream 😞.”
Malachi was the son of local pastors, Joel and Sophie Lancaster, who lead Activate Church. They released a heartfelt statement through the church’s social media, saying, “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of our dear son, Malachi Lancaster. We are deeply grateful for your prayers and support during this difficult time.” They conveyed their trust in God’s faithfulness as they navigate their grief and make arrangements.
Gary Bracewell, pastor at Christian Life Fellowship Church, has known Malachi for over a decade. He recounted that the family was out of town during the incident and had reached out to him while they were on their way back to Gainesville. “Malachi was just a wonderful young man; he was full of love and adventure,” Bracewell noted. “He was an entrepreneur. He was a grown-up in a young man’s body.”
A fundraiser has been organized to assist the Lancaster family during this challenging time. Meanwhile, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission is investigating the shooting, which preliminarily appears to have involved an accidental discharge of a firearm. Malachi was transferred to Shands Hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.
The entire community is mourning with the Lancaster family as they deal with this heartbreaking loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family and friends during this difficult time. This is an active investigation, and further details will be released as they become available.
