22-year-old man killed in Huntersville crash aspired to be in law enforcement, parents say

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — A 22-year-old man was killed in a crash early Sunday morning in Huntersville, police said.

Officers responded to the scene at around 3 a.m. on Hugh Torance Parkway between Sagefield Drive and Chaddsley Drive.

Gavin Cox Gavin Cox, 22, was killed in a crash Sunday morning in Huntersville.

Gavin Cox died at the scene.

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“A tragic situation that I don’t think I would want on anybody to ever happen unexpectedly like this,” his father, Rodrick Cox, told Channel 9.

Gavin Cox was returning home from a wedding when he crashed into the tree, Rodrick Cox and his wife, Debbie Cox, said.

“He has a smile that is megawatt,” his mom said. “Lights up the room and a personality to match. When Gavin entered the room, you knew it immediately. He was bigger than life, and he will carry on that way in our hearts.”

The family spoke with Channel 9 to thank the community for the support they have received.

“I appreciate it because I can’t have him back,” Debbie Cox said. “But I appreciate what they did. It means a lot to me. Nobody can bring my son back, which is what I want. But the support from these strangers means a lot to me at this time.”

A small memorial of flowers and stuffed animals was at the scene of the crash.

Huntersville crash A small memorial of flowers and stuffed animals was at the scene of the Huntersville crash. (WSOC)

Gavin Gox, an East Carolina University graduate, wanted to be a police officer, his parents said.

Gavin’s parents said that he worked very hard and had three jobs while taking basic law enforcement training. The parents said their son set a great example for his brothers.

“He left his mark already,” Debbie Cox said. “I wish that his legacy had been that he was giving back to the community and having more time with his friends. And I was looking forward to personally being with my son and his brothers, and I feel robbed.”

The cause of the crash has not been determined.

The investigation is ongoing.

Return to this story for updates.