In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the lives of Megan Barnett and her son Connor Barba were forever changed when a tragic car accident claimed the young man’s life. The mother and son duo from Norman, Oklahoma, were en route to Kansas City to watch their beloved Tampa Bay Buccaneers take on the Chiefs in a highly-anticipated Monday Night Football matchup. Connor, who would have soon celebrated his birthday, was thrilled at the prospect of seeing his favorite player, quarterback Baker Mayfield, in action.
A Surprise Gift Turns Tragic
Megan had surprised Connor with tickets to the game, a thoughtful gesture intended to make his upcoming birthday even more special. Little did they know that their journey would be cut short in the most devastating way imaginable. On Saturday, November 2nd, just a day before the big game, their vehicle was involved in a head-on collision in Montgomery County, Kansas, approximately 170 miles from their destination.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, a 2014 Chevy Camaro veered into the lane occupied by Connor and Megan’s car, striking them head-on. The impact claimed the lives of both Connor and the driver of the Camaro, Joseph Savage of Coffeyville, Kansas. Megan, though seriously injured, survived the crash.
A Hero’s Final Act
In a testament to Connor’s character, his uncle Collin Barnett revealed to “Good Morning America” that the young man’s quick thinking likely saved his mother’s life. “We were told that the [other car] was in Connor’s lane, and Connor swerved, [and] that he hit the brakes tremendously hard and got Megan out of the way,” Collin shared, adding, “He took the full impact and was kind of heroic in that.”
He was a football fan in general and a big time Baker fan. He wanted to see Baker play. It was just going to be a great game.
– Collin Barnett, Connor’s uncle
Buccaneers Extend Support
Upon learning of the tragedy, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers organization stepped up to offer support to the grieving family. The team donated $10,000 to assist with the expenses incurred during this difficult time. Baker Mayfield, touched by Connor’s devotion, also expressed his condolences and intention to reach out to the family personally.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Megan and her family as they deal with this heartbreaking loss. I am honored and humbled knowing that Connor was such a big fan. I would have loved to have met him.
– Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback
As a new parent himself, Mayfield acknowledged the profound impact of such a loss, stating, “As a new parent, this really hits home for me. I realize there are no words that can provide true comfort at a time such as this, but I hope that Megan makes a full recovery and that she draws strength from the outpouring of support she is receiving from around the country.”
Community Rallies Behind Family
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, Megan’s employer has set up a GoFundMe page to help alleviate the financial burden the family now faces. As Megan remains in the ICU at a Tulsa, Oklahoma hospital, the community has rallied around her, offering prayers, well-wishes, and financial support during this incredibly challenging time.
The loss of Connor Barba has left an indelible mark on all those who knew and loved him. His selfless final act, which likely saved his mother’s life, serves as a poignant reminder of the depth of his character and the love he had for his family. As the Barnetts navigate the difficult road ahead, they can take solace in the knowledge that Connor’s memory will live on, forever cherished by those whose lives he touched.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ gesture of support, along with the outpouring of love and sympathy from fans and strangers alike, stands as a testament to the power of community in the face of tragedy. As Megan Barnett begins the long journey of healing, both physically and emotionally, she can find strength in the knowledge that she is not alone, and that her son’s legacy will endure through the countless lives he impacted during his all-too-short time on earth.
