A New Mexico State University women’s soccer player passed away suddenly on Monday, July 10. Thalia Chaverria, 20, was found unresponsive in her Las Cruces residence, according to the Las Cruces Police Department. An investigation is ongoing, but LCPD stated that investigators have no reason to believe her death is related to criminal activity.
Chaverria was entering her third year with the Aggie soccer program. She was originally from Bakersfield, California, and had just celebrated her birthday on July 2.
“The sudden loss of Thalia has completely rocked our Aggie soccer families’ world,” Rob Baarts, women’s soccer head coach, said in a statement. “T was an inspiration and rock to this team. She will be missed but not forgotten. Her spirit will be with us everyday, on and off the pitch. I will always love you T!”
In the statement, Athletic Director Mario Moccia said Chaverria’s personality was vibrant and that she had a bright future ahead of her.
“Yesterday, we lost an amazing young woman, and we are deeply saddened by the untimely passing of a member of our Aggie family,” Moccia said. “The New Mexico State community is very tight-knit, and this tragedy is felt throughout. Our most sincere thoughts and prayers go out to Thalia’s family and friends in this time of mourning.”
In a GoFundMe page organized by family members to offset funeral and transportation costs, Sonia and Jayd Lugo wrote: “She was loved by many. Her long beautiful curly hair and smile will forever be embedded in our memories.”
The Aggie Health and Wellness Center offers grief counseling and mental health resources, if needed. For more information, call (575) 646-1512 or visit wellness.nmsu.edu.
This is a developing story. The Round Up will publish updates when new information is released.
