Tustin High football star ‘shot dead for his hat’ in Compton

A cherished football star from Orange County tragically lost his life in a late-night shooting and car crash, allegedly over a hat he was wearing, according to a family friend.

Los Angeles County deputies arrived at the 14000 block of South Stanford Avenue in Compton just before 10 p.m. last Thursday, following reports of gunfire.

The victim, identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office as 19-year-old William Leapart, was pronounced dead at the scene, as confirmed by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Leapart was a standout cornerback and wide receiver for the Tustin High School Tillers football team.

He was remembered by many friends and family members for his notable achievements and outstanding character.

Rapper and football coach Curtis “Spider Loc” Williams, who coached Leapart and is close to his family, claimed that the young athlete was killed by someone intending to steal his hat.

“William was killed by the streets. William didn’t gangbang. He did well in school and he had a loving family,” Williams expressed in a video posted on Instagram.

“When are black lives going start mattering to black people? It don’t make no sense,” Williams added.

Leapart showcased his on-field talent by sharing videos of his successful plays on his X profile.

He maintained a 3.4 GPA and was seeking recruitment by black colleges.

“Looking for the right opportunity!! Recruitment 100% open,” he wrote on X in December 2023.

Leapart’s former team honored him with a heartfelt tribute on social media.

“As soon as he arrived on campus, he set the example of what the standard of a student athlete is. He was quiet, humble, and had one of the biggest hearts,” stated a post on the Tillers’ Instagram profile.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Leapart family. Hoping for peace with everyone who has come across Will,” the post continues. “Once a Tiller, Always a Tiller”

The class of 2024 Tustin graduate, who wore the number seven jersey, was fondly remembered by his grieving classmates.

“Rest in peace William you are greatly missed,” replied one friend of the slain teen on Instagram.

Footage from the scene of Leapart’s death shows his white sedan collided head-on with a utility pole on Stanford Avenue after he was shot while driving.

Investigators cordoned off the vehicle as they searched for clues at the scene.

The LASD is continuing its investigation. No information about a possible suspect has been released.

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters