Canadian Football League linebacker Jayden Dalke was killed in a car crash Saturday night.
He was 30 years old.
The Saskatchewan Roughriders captain was driving the wrong way on the highway before the crash, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said in a news release shared with multiple outlets.
The crash also killed fellow driver Bhishma Rajyaguru, 22.
At the time of the crash, Dalke was returning to Regina after spending the Roughriders’ bye week in Leduc, his hometown.
Cannabis and alcohol were in Dalke’s vehicle at the time of the crash.
The RCMP received a report at approximately 8:30 pm CST of a silver SUV leaving a gas station without paying for fuel.
It was the same SUV involved in the crash about 30 minutes later.
“It is with tremendous sadness that we share the tragic news of Jayden’s passing,” the league said in a statement on Monday. “He was a passionate competitor who played with incredible heart. Off the field, he will be remembered for his leadership in the locker room and his dedication to the community. The CFL has lost a teammate, a Canadian brother and a friend. On behalf of the Board of Governors, our CFL family and the entire Canadian football community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Jayden’s family, friends, the Saskatchewan Roughriders organization and all those whose lives were bettered through knowing him.”
Dalke was drafted 54th overall by Saskatchewan out of the University of Alberta in the sixth round of the 2022 CFL Canadian Draft.
He was a part of the 2025 Grey Cup-winning team that brought home the fifth championship in franchise history.
“A relentless warrior on the field, Jayden’s determination, toughness and work ethic inspired his teammates, who cared deeply for him and are heartbroken by his passing,” the team shared in a statement. “On and off the field, he was the true definition of what it means to be a Saskatchewan Roughrider.
“Our hearts go out to the entire Dalke family, who travelled the country to watch Jayden live his dream. We will miss him terribly and will never forget the impact he had on our lives and our team.”
