The Saskatchewan Roughriders are planning a tribute for the other man killed in a crash that also took the life of team captain Jayden Dalke.
Regina resident Bhishma Rajyaguru, 22, died Saturday when a vehicle he was driving collided with one being driven by Dalke, according to police.
Dalke was driving the wrong way on a divided highway near the town of Lumsden, Sask., before the fatal crash, and police said there was alcohol and cannabis in his vehicle.
“We are profoundly saddened by the loss of 22-year-old Regina resident Bhishma Rajyaguru on Saturday,” the team said in a statement Tuesday.
“In speaking with one of Bhishma’s loved ones, he shared with us that he was a caring friend, a devoted son, a supportive brother, and someone who was always there for the people in his life. A gifted percussionist with a deep love of music, Bhishma’s passion and presence left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
The Roughriders said Rajyaguru will be honoured as part of a pre-game ceremony on Thursday before a game against the Edmonton Elks.
Rajyaguru moved to Canada from India as an international student in 2022, friends told The Canadian Press. A GoFundMe page has been set up to cover the costs of returning his body to India.
The Roughriders said in their statement that they “are working with his family on the best way we can support them.”
“Our hearts are with his family, friends, and all those mourning his loss,” the statement reads. “We also hold in our thoughts everyone who is supporting those affected during this incredibly difficult time.”
— With files from the Canadian Press