The sudden death of Aaron De La Torre, the esteemed Denton Ryan High School defensive coordinator, has left a deep void in the hearts of the school community and beyond. The untimely passing of this respected coach, husband, father, and friend has left many grappling with shock and grief as they come to terms with his loss. This article reflects on his life, his impact, and the circumstances surrounding his passing, which remain largely unknown.
A Pillar of the Denton Ryan Community
Aaron De La Torre was more than just a football coach—he was a mentor, a role model, and a father figure to many young athletes, particularly those who lacked such a figure in their personal lives. He touched countless lives through his role as defensive coordinator at Denton Ryan, where he had been coaching for the past seven years, contributing significantly to the success of the Raiders’ football program.
According to family friend Chasity Torti, De La Torre’s influence reached far beyond the football field. “He loved those kids as his own and they loved him just as much,” she shared, emphasizing how De La Torre helped shape not only his players’ athletic abilities but also their characters. “He was a father figure to kids who didn’t have one,” she continued, highlighting the depth of his care for the students under his guidance.
A Career Dedicated to Football and Mentorship
Aaron De La Torre’s career in football was impressive. A former defensive tackle for Stephen F. Austin, he enjoyed a brief stint in the NFL before transitioning to coaching. He started his
coaching journey at his alma mater, Stephen F. Austin, before joining Denton Ryan High School in 2009. After a few years, he left to serve as the head coach at Irving High School from 2012 to 2017, before returning to Denton Ryan as defensive coordinator.
Under his guidance, Denton Ryan achieved significant success, including winning the 2020 5A Division I state championship, the third in the program’s history. His commitment to excellence on the field was evident in the team’s achievements, but his contributions went far beyond wins and losses. He was known for building relationships with his players and helping them succeed both on and off the field.
Unsettling Circumstances Surrounding His Death
While the exact cause of Aaron De La Torre’s death remains unknown, it came just a week after Hickory Creek police closed an investigation involving De La Torre and a 12-year-old boy. The incident, which came to public attention through a viral TikTok video, alleged that De La
Torre was involved in an assault. However, after reviewing video footage and witness statements, the boy’s mother decided not to press charges, and police concluded that no criminal activity had occurred.
Despite the controversy, those close to De La Torre, including Torti, defended his character, emphasizing his positive impact on countless students’ lives. The Hickory Creek Police Department confirmed that it is not investigating De La Torre’s death, and the Denton County Medical Examiner has yet to release an official cause of death.
A Community in Mourning
Denton Ryan High School and the wider community are reeling from the sudden loss of Aaron De La Torre. The school’s principal, Vernon Reeves, issued a statement expressing the deep sadness felt by all who knew him. “It is with great sadness that we share the news of a sudden loss to our Ryan High School family,” Reeves wrote, urging the community to keep De La Torre’s family in their thoughts during this challenging time.
The Denton Independent School District (DISD) echoed this sentiment, calling the loss of De La Torre a “tragedy” and asking for prayers for his family. The district also expressed its commitment to supporting those affected by his death, including his family, colleagues, and students.
Support for the Family
In the wake of De La Torre’s death, a GoFundMe page was created to help support his family financially. According to Chasity Torti, the funds raised will go directly to the family to help alleviate any financial burdens during this difficult time. “Aaron would have given the shirt off
his back,” Torti said, explaining why so many were eager to contribute. The fundraising effort is a testament to the impact he had on those around him, both in his professional and personal life.
Legacy of a Beloved Coach
Aaron De La Torre leaves behind a legacy of dedication, compassion, and excellence. His oldest son, Alex De La Torre, followed in his father’s footsteps and currently serves as an assistant coach at Wylie East High School. His youngest son, Kolt, is a student-athlete at
Stephen F. Austin, where his father once played. De La Torre’s influence will undoubtedly live on through his children, his former players, and the countless lives he touched throughout his career.
As the community mourns his sudden passing, they also celebrate the life of a man who dedicated himself to the betterment of others. His impact on the Denton Ryan football program and the lives of his players will be remembered for years to come.
Conclusion
The death of Aaron De La Torre is a profound loss for the Denton Ryan community. As a coach, mentor, and father figure, he touched the lives of many and left a lasting impact on the football field and beyond.
While the circumstances of his death remain unclear, what is certain is that he will be remembered for the positive influence he had on those around him. As the community rallies around his family during this difficult time, his legacy of kindness, leadership, and dedication will live on.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who was Aaron De La Torre?
Aaron De La Torre was the defensive coordinator for Denton Ryan High School’s football team and a former NFL player. He had been coaching for 17 years and was known for his impact on young athletes.
2. What was the cause of Aaron De La Torre’s death?
The exact cause of Aaron De La Torre’s death has not yet been released by the Denton County Medical Examiner’s Office.
3. Was Aaron De La Torre involved in any controversies before his death?
De La Torre was implicated in a viral TikTok video alleging assault, but the investigation was closed after the boy’s mother decided not to press charges, and police found no criminal activity.
4. How is the community supporting De La Torre’s family?
A GoFundMe page was created to help support his family financially during this difficult time.
5. What is Aaron De La Torre’s legacy?
Aaron De La Torre is remembered as a dedicated coach, mentor, and father figure who had a lasting impact on the Denton Ryan football program and the lives of many young athletes.