The local boxing community is mourning the loss of one of its own. Local boxer, 30-year-old Jonathan Andre, was killed after he was struck by a car in northeast Edmonton late Sunday night.
The medical examiner confirms Andre died at the scene of the crash on 118 Ave. and 42nd St.
Police said the man was crossing the street when he was struck by a Honda Civic. Andre was affiliated with the Cougar Boxing Club in Edmonton. He had won 22 of his 29 amateur fights, capturing two provincial titles and won both of his matches as a pro.
"His work ethic was incredible. He'd wake, he'd go for a run, go train two, three hours, he'd go home and come to boxing and train for another two, three hours," said Andre's training partner, Paul MacKenzie. "He was one of the role models, kids looked up to him, I was one of them, I as well looked up to him."
He is being remembered as a man with an upbeat personality with a strong commitment to the sport of boxing.
But friends say it was his commitment to boxing that may have placed him in the wrong place at the wrong time. Friends say Andre was most likely on a training run when he was hit by the vehicle.
"He'll never be forgotten, he'll live on through all of us at the Cougar gym and stuff and anyone that he has interacted with, will remember Jonathan Andre," said MacKenzie.
Police are investigating whether the car that struck Andre was racing another vehicle at the time.
"If that were the case that they were speeding for no good reason other than to just get out there and speed, I hope some severe charges are laid...severe, because we lost a friend, we lost a brother," said Andre's friend, Sterling Craig.
Charges are pending against the 24-year-old driver. But police say it could take investigators weeks to wrap up their investigation.
Anyone who may have witnessed the collision is asked to contact police at 780-423-4567.
Fellow boxers are organizing a fundraiser and will dedicate the proceeds to Andre's son. A date hasn't been set yet.
With files from Sonia Sunger
