Jason Maser, a 22-year-old former volleyball at Sacred Heart Academy in Hempstead and B&B Volleyball Club in Albertson, died by suicide on Friday night, just hours after being charged with the rape of a 15-year-old player he coached. Authorities reported that Maser stepped in front of a westbound Long Island Rail Road train at the Woodbury crossing in Syosset, a deliberate act that was witnessed by people as well as cameras.
Maser’s death came shortly after his release on $75,000 bail, following charges that included third-degree rape and criminal sex acts. The allegations suggest that Maser assaulted the teenager on two occasions while inside his vehicle, leading to immediate action by the school once the accusations were brought to light.
Sacred Heart Academy and B&B Volleyball Club have publicly distanced themselves from Maser, underscoring their commitment to student safety. Both organizations took swift action upon learning of the allegations, terminating Maser’s employment and access to their facilities, and cooperating fully with law enforcement investigations.
The case has stirred significant doubt within the community about the mechanisms in place to protect students and young athletes from abuse.
