According to LSU officials, a long-time football coach at Independence High School and former employee of the university passed away after being hit by a car after being engaged in another collision.
Around 8:10 p.m. on Friday, according to Louisiana State Police, troopers started looking into a collision that claimed the life of Charles Baglio Jr., 81, of Independence, on U.S. Highway 51 at Kohnke Hill Road in Tangipahoa Parish.
After 34 years of coaching at Independence High School, including 22 years as head coach, Baglio joined the LSU staff in 2002 as the coordinator of football relations. He collaborated on staffs with Ed Orgeron, Les Miles, and Nick Saban.
LSP claims that Baglio’s car and another vehicle were involved in the initial collision. A collision occurred when Baglio’s car got into the path of the other southbound vehicle at the intersection of U.S. Highway 51. While the second vehicle came to rest in the northbound ditch, Baglio’s vehicle partially came to rest across both lanes.
Baglio got out of his car and went to see how the other car’s driver was doing. Baglio was hit by another car going south after he got off the shoulder and returned to the road. He was declared dead at the spot after suffering fatal injuries.
This is the second person killed in Tangipahoa Parish this month as a consequence of a pedestrian being hit following a collision.
That fatality occurred in Amite following a separate car accident in which a woman was struck by a car as she crossed an intersection.
A Lasting Legacy remembered today
As LSU and the wider sports community come to terms with this loss, it is clear that Charles Baglio Jr. influence will endure.
His approach to coaching and life inspired generations, and his passion for the game brought joy to countless fans.
The memory of Coach Baglio will be honored through the continued success of the LSU football program and the lives of those he inspired. While he may no longer be with us, his spirit and legacy will forever remain a part of the fabric of college football.
The death of Charles Baglio marks the end of an era, but his contributions to the sport and his unwavering commitment to his players will not be forgotten.
As we reflect on his life and career, we celebrate a man who dedicated himself to the betterment of others and the game he loved. Rest in peace, Coach . You will be missed.
