Wake Forest assistant coach accused of fatally punching man in NY resigns
Wake Forest University assistant basketball Coach Jamill Jones resigned from his position Friday, months after he was accused of fatally punching a man in New York.
Authorities said Millbrook High School graduate Sandor Szabo was attending an August wedding in Queens, NY, when he knocked on the window of Jones’ car, mistaking it for an Uber.
An offended Jones punched Szabo so hard that he hit the pavement, police said. He was pronounced brain dead at the hospital.
The New York Medical Examiner determined that Szabo, 35, died from a blunt impact to his head that caused a brain injury and ruled his death a homicide.
Jones surrendered to police on Aug. 9 and was charged with misdemeanor assault. He had remained on leave from Wake Forest University since Aug. 10.
“I believe it is in the best interest of both the team and me personally that I resign from my position,” Jones said. “It is my sincerest hope and desire that stepping down now will allow the student-athletes, coaches and administration at Wake Forest to focus fully on their studies and on the season ahead, without distraction, while I focus all of my attention and energy on resolving my legal case.”
Jones had worked at Wake Forest University since May 2017.
“This decision is in the best interest for both our program and Jamill. I appreciate everyone on our staff who took on extra responsibilities during Jamill’s leave and we are committed to finding a great addition to complete our coaching staff,” head coach Danny Manning said of Jones’ resignation. “Our heartfelt condolences remain with Sandor Szabo’s family and friends.”
