SAD NEWS⚫: Detroit Tigers Legend Alan Trammell Involved in Tragic Car Accident — Family Releases Heartbreaking Statement

Detroit, MI – July 17, 2025

The baseball world was shaken today by devastating news involving Detroit Tigers icon Alan Trammell. The Hall of Famer and longtime Tigers shortstop was involved in a serious car accident over the weekend that also involved his ex-wife, Kathleen Trammell. The couple, who remained close after their separation, were attending a family reunion just outside Grand Rapids, Michigan, when the crash occurred.

The Accident

According to preliminary reports from the Kent County Sheriff’s Department, the accident happened late Saturday evening on a rural road near Rockford. Trammell and Kathleen had just left a small family gathering and were en route to their nearby accommodation when their vehicle was struck by a pickup truck that ran a stop sign at an intersection with limited visibility.

Both Trammell and his ex-wife sustained serious injuries and were airlifted to Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. The driver of the other vehicle, a 27-year-old man from the area, suffered minor injuries and is cooperating with authorities.

Alcohol or drug involvement is not suspected at this time, but investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances of the crash.

A Family Statement

This morning, the Trammell family released a statement via the Detroit Tigers organization:

“Our hearts are broken as we navigate the aftermath of this terrible accident. Alan remains in critical but stable condition, and Kathleen is recovering from several fractures and a concussion. We are grateful for the swift response of emergency personnel and for the prayers pouring in from fans around the world.

Though they have been divorced for years, Alan and Kathleen have always remained loving friends and co-parents, deeply connected through their children and grandchildren. We ask for privacy during this difficult time, and we will provide updates as appropriate. Please keep both of them in your thoughts.”

An Outpouring of Support

Since the news broke, support has flooded in from the sports world and beyond. Former teammates, sports broadcasters, and fans have taken to social media to express their love and concern for Trammell and his family.

Tigers legend and former manager Jim Leyland shared his thoughts during a local radio appearance:

“Alan is not just one of the greatest to ever wear the Tigers uniform — he’s one of the finest men I’ve ever known. This is incredibly hard to hear. We’re all praying for him and Kathleen.”

The Tigers also honored Trammell during Monday’s game at Comerica Park by holding a moment of silence, followed by a standing ovation when his name was announced on the jumbotron with the message: “Stay strong, Alan. Detroit loves you.”

A Detroit Icon

Alan Trammell, 67, is best known for his legendary 20-year career with the Detroit Tigers, where he spent his entire Major League Baseball playing career from 1977 to 1996. He was a six-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove winner, and co-MVP of the 1984 World Series — a championship year that remains etched in the memory of every Tigers fan.

Trammell was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2018, an honor many believed was long overdue. He later served in coaching and front office roles, and most recently worked as a special assistant to the Tigers’ front office.

Despite his professional accolades, Trammell has always spoken most proudly about his role as a father and grandfather. He and Kathleen, though no longer married, frequently appeared together at family functions and community events.

Moving Forward

Doctors say the next 48 hours will be crucial for Trammell’s recovery. Friends close to the family say Kathleen is awake and alert, but “deeply shaken” — both physically and emotionally — by the ordeal.

As fans anxiously await updates, the Detroit Tigers organization has opened a public message board for supporters to leave messages, which will be delivered to the Trammell family.

“Baseball is a game of resilience,” read one post. “Alan, you taught us how to fight with class and strength. Now it’s our turn to lift you up.”