19-year-old Thalia Chaverria, who played soccer at the New Mexico State University, was found unresponsive at her residence and was declared dead by responding medical personnel. It was just day ahead of her 20th birthday.
As a young and health student-athlete, it’s unclear what caused Chaverria’s death. It is under investigation by police.
NMSU Director of Athletics Mario Moccia confirmed that Chaverria, who is from Bakersfield, California, died “suddenly.”
Thalia Chaverria, a Junior soccer star at New Mexico State University from Bakersfield, California, died unexpectedly after being found unresponsive at home on Monday. Police investigating said there are no signs of foul play or any criminal activity.
She was only 20 years old. pic.twitter.com/UQ9Im8RiyH
— Te𝕏asLindsay™ (@TexasLindsay_) July 12, 2023
“Yesterday, we lost an amazing young woman, and we are deeply saddened by the untimely passing of a member of our Aggie family,” Moccia said. “Thalia had a vibrant personality and those who were fortunate enough to spend time with her knew she had a bright future ahead of her.
“The New Mexico State community is very tight-knit, and this tragedy is felt throughout. Our most sincere thoughts and prayers go out to Thalia’s family and friends in this time of mourning.”
Police say they “have no reason to believe Chaverria’s death is suspicious or the result of criminal activity.”
Heartbreaking photos show college soccer star Thalia Chaverria celebrating birthday days before sudden death https://t.co/VgjVuAXFvD pic.twitter.com/gCpJ7qFzht
— New York Post (@nypost) July 13, 2023
“Chaverria was entering her third season as a defender for the Aggies,” the report found. “She played a key role in helping NMSU earn its first conference title in school history for women’s soccer, starting in 20 games and recording two assists.”
“The sudden loss of Thalia has completely rocked our Aggie soccer families’ world,” head coach Rob Baarts said in a statement.
“T was an inspiration and rock to this team. She will be missed but not forgotten. Her spirit will be with us everyday, on and off the pitch. I will always love you T!”
