Community rallies to support family of Copperas Cove teen

By LYNETTE SOWELL 

Cove Leader-Press 

Trysten Chaney, 17, a senior at Copperas Cove High School as well as #55 on the Copperas Cove Bulldawgs, passed away the evening of January 14, in a single-vehicle accident.

“Trysten had an incredible ability to light up any room, to make others feel seen, valued, and loved. Whether through a kind word, a smart remark, or a joyful laugh, he always knew how to make the world feel a little brighter. His generosity, not only in actions but in spirit, will be missed by everyone fortunate enough to know and love him,” the family wrote in a statement. 

The future looked bright for Chaney, a 6’5” player for the varsity Bulldawgs, where he excelled in the positions of center and guard. 

On Thursday evening, CCISD sent a statement to parents and families. 

“This is a challenging time for many of our students and staff at Copperas Cove high School and we want everybody to know that we are here to assist students, staff and families, while also respecting the privacy of the student’s family. 

“The CCISD Department of Behavioral Support Services is providing additional counseling support services to the CCHS campus.”

The Copperas Cove community and beyond have shared thoughts on the young man, who grew up in Copperas Cove and was set to graduate. 

A Meal Train has been set up for the family at https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/476zq7, organized by Candace Hollingsworth. 

Chaney’s sister, Ali Donavan, has set up a GoFundMe account that is raising funds to help with expenses for a memorial and farewell.

Those who would like to support the family can visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-to-trysten-chaneys-farewell for more information. As of the afternoon of Friday, Jan. 17, the fund had raised just over $15,000.