Terrible news to report just days before Christmas, but Texas A&M OL Joseph Villavisencio was tragically killed in a car accident on Thursday, according to the university.

Villavisencio had swerved to avoid an animal and ended up colliding head on with an 18-wheeler near the town of Normangee about 40 miles from College Station, on Thursday, according to witness reports.

Villavisencio had spentthe early part of Thursday with his teammates volunteering at a local shelter following the Aggies finished last practice prior to the Meineke Car Care Bowl on Dec. 31.

“He was one of the most respectful and high-character players I’ve ever coached,” former A&M coach Mike Sherman, who was fired on Dec. 1, told the Houston Chronicle. “It was an honor and privilege to have known him and coached him.”

Villavisencio saw very limited action in his career with the Aggies, but touched many involved in the program. Sherman said everyone will remember him as a person “who would do anything for anybody.”

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Joseph’s family and anyone touched by this tragedy.

via ESPN