Merve Terzioglu, 21, a junior on the Delta State University Swimming and Diving team, passed away Monday, April 7 from injuries received in an automobile accident on March 29. Terzigolu had spent the past eight days receiving treatment at the Elvis Presley Trauma Center in Memphis, Tenn.
“Our hearts go out to Merve’s family, friends, and teammates today. She was a star in and out of the pool and her passing is such a tragedy,” said Brian Hein, head coach of the Statesmen and Lady Statesmen Swimming and Diving Teams.
Terzigolu’s passing is the second causality resulting from a one-car auto accident on Highway 61 north of Cleveland on March 29. Molly Bates, a teammate on the Lady Statesmen Swimming and Diving team, lost her life in the accident as well.
Terzigolu, a native of Istanbul, Turkey, was a standout performer in the pool for Delta State this season. She garnered the Most Valuable Swimmer Award at the New South Intercollegiate Swim Conference Championships in February and was recognized as a member of the All-NSISC team. In her first season with the Lady Statesmen, Terzigolu participated in the NCAA Division II Swimming and Diving Championships.
Delta State University counselors and several area pastors are on hand to offer support for the team, coaches, and student body during this difficult time.
Delta State and DSU Athletics are planning a memorial service for Terzigolu. Specifics on the service are not available at this time. As plans are finalized, additional information will be released.
