Train Wreck Kills Ex-USC Receiver

Former USC wide receiver Kevin Williams died Thursday in the Cajon Pass train crash. He was 38.

Williams, whose 25 career touchdown catches are still a USC record, worked as a brakeman on the freight train and apparently died when he jumped as the train crashed down a steep downgrade.

“Kevin and I go way back to our schoolboy days, running track and playing football together,” said Charles White, who played with Williams at San Fernando High and at USC. “We were great friends. I have a bunch of great memories of Kevin, and I’ll hold those with me forever.”

From 1977 to 1980, Williams was considered one of the most dangerous college receivers in the nation as he caught 71 passes for 1,358 yards.

In averaging 19.1 yards per catch, Williams still holds NCAA records for highest percentage of passes caught for touchdowns in a career (35.3%) and a season (58.8% in 1978).

Williams also ran track at USC and was the leadoff runner on three consecutive NCAA champion 400-meter relay teams.

Funeral services are expected to be held next Friday at a site to be determined. For information, call (213) 933-0291.

Williams leaves two sons, ages 15 and 3.