Former BYU pitcher Arik Mack tragically passed away at 19 in a Utah car accident. His baseball legacy and spirit continue to inspire.
The world of sports often celebrates stories of triumph, but it’s also marked by moments of heartbreak. One such moment came in March 2015, when promising young baseball talent Arik Jeffery Mack lost his life in a tragic car accident. Only 19 years old, Arik had already made a remarkable impact both on and off the field. His passing in Spanish Fork Canyon, Utah, left a deep void in the baseball community and among those who loved him.
In this tribute, we reflect on Arik’s athletic achievements, his vibrant spirit, and the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of athletes.
A Promising Baseball Career Cut Short
Arik Mack, born on April 8, 1995, in Lake County, Florida, developed a passion for baseball early in life. That passion propelled him to success in Utah’s competitive high school baseball scene. As a standout left-handed pitcher at Maple Mountain High School, Arik quickly became a name to watch. His crowning achievement came in 2013 when he led his team to the 4A state championship game and pitched a memorable no-hitter during the tournament.
Twice named 4A Pitcher of the Year, Arik’s dominance on the mound earned him a place among Utah’s baseball elite. He currently ranks second all-time for strikeouts in the state’s high school baseball history.
Continuing the Family Legacy at BYU
Arik’s success wasn’t just a personal accomplishment—it was a continuation of a family tradition. Following in the footsteps of his father, Jeff Mack, who was also a pitcher for Brigham Young University, Arik joined the BYU Cougars baseball team in 2014. His collegiate debut was a proud moment, not just for the Mack family, but for a community that had supported him since his early days on the field.
He later continued his development with Salt Lake Community College and played for the Utah Marshalls, showcasing his growing potential and love for the sport.
A Life Remembered
On March 24, 2015, Arik’s life was tragically cut short when his vehicle collided with a coal truck on U.S. Highway 6 in Spanish Fork Canyon. The accident shook the local community, with an outpouring of grief from teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Arik was remembered for his infectious energy, kindness, and strong moral compass. Known affectionately as “Air Bear” by those closest to him, he was a young man full of life, faith, and love for those around him.
He is survived by his loving parents, Liz and Jeff Mack, his brothers Austin, Dallas, Jeff Jr., and Wes Childs, as well as his grandparents, Blitch and Jeannine Shuman and Glenn and Genevieve Nygren.
Funeral services were held on March 28, 2015, in Mapleton, Utah, drawing family, friends, and admirers who came to celebrate his life.
Lasting Legacy of Hope and Inspiration
While Arik Mack’s journey was tragically brief, his impact endures. His commitment to excellence, love for the game, and unwavering character serve as an inspiration to athletes and young people across the country. Communities still remember him, not just for the records he broke, but for the heart and humanity he brought to every game, every classroom, and every relationship.
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For more on BYU athletics, visit BYUCougars.com
Conclusion
The memory of Arik Mack continues to live on in those he inspired and the lives he touched. Though his time on this earth was short, his legacy remains powerful—a reminder of how passion, perseverance, and kindness can leave a lasting mark.
Share this tribute to honor Arik’s memory, or leave a comment if you’d like to share your own story or message about how he inspired you.
