According to police, the crash happened around 10:50 p.m. when Sandram was outside of his vehicle on the highway and was struck by another driver. Authorities have stated that impairment is not suspected on the part of either Sandram or the other driver involved in the incident. The driver who struck Sandram was not seriously injured. Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, but for those who knew Sandram personally, the details do little to ease the pain of losing a friend, teammate, and family member so suddenly.
Friends say Sandram was more than just a talented athlete; he was a person who brought positivity and enthusiasm wherever he went. Sandeep Manchikatla, a close friend, described the heartbreak of learning about Sandram’s death during the overnight hours, saying the news was devastating and difficult to accept. He added that the loss has left a deep void in their lives, explaining that Sandram was someone who checked every box both as a player and as a human being, and was cherished by everyone who had the chance to know him.
Sandram was well known in the local cricket community as a standout player for the Fuquay Mavericks. Teammates described him as extremely dedicated and someone who always gave his best on the field. Friends recalled that he approached every game with passion and commitment, pushing himself and motivating those around him. His energy during matches and his friendly nature off the field made him a central figure in the team, someone whose presence cannot be easily replaced. Many believe that his contributions to the sport and the team will be remembered long after his passing.
Another close friend, Harish Ramakrishna, spoke about Sandram’s love for sports and his active presence on the field. He described him as someone who always gave 100 percent whenever he played and said that his role within the team was truly irreplaceable. According to him, Sandram’s name will continue to be cherished every time the team plays, whether before or after a match. Even though he may no longer be physically present, his spirit and memory, friends say, will always remain with them in every game they play going forward.
On Monday, friends and family gathered at Sandram’s home to remember and honor his life. The atmosphere was filled with grief, but also with stories and memories that reflected the kind of person Sandram was. He was remembered as kind-hearted, fun-loving, and jovial, someone who had the ability to make others smile even during difficult moments. Those who attended said the gathering was not only about mourning his death but also about celebrating the life he lived and the impact he had on those around him.
Friends described the family as being in complete disbelief, still waiting for Sandram to return home. The suddenness of the loss has made it especially difficult for them to process what has happened. Support has poured in from friends, teammates, and members of the community, all of whom are offering help and comfort in any way they can during this painful time. Many said they remain shellshocked and are doing their best to stand by the family as they navigate through their grief.
As the community reflects on Sandram’s life, many are choosing to focus on the joy and positivity he brought to others rather than the tragedy of his passing. Friends say his immense contribution to every game he played and every relationship he built will not be forgotten. They plan to honor his memory by remembering him before each match and carrying his spirit with them into the future. For those who knew him, Arun K. Sandram will always be remembered as a gem of a person whose kindness, passion, and love for sports left a lasting mark on everyone he touched.
