University of Alabama swimmer John Servati died on Monday night after a tornado rampaged through Tuscaloosa, Ala.

Alabama Swimmer Dies In Tornado

Servati had sought shelter with his girlfriend behind a retaining wall in the basement of his off-campus home during the violent storm. Tragically, the retaining wall didn’t hold, according to school spokesperson Shane Dorrill. While Servati was able to hold it up long enough for his girlfriend to escape unharmed, he became trapped under the wall. He was later rushed to DCH Regional Medical Center where he died of his injuries.

"I understand that he was in a house off-campus and was hit by a retaining wall," Dorrill told ESPN. "I don't know how it happened. I do know he was with his girlfriend and she is uninjured."

Servati was a beloved member of the University of Alabama community, which was shocked and saddened to learn of the star student-athlete's death. Both his swimming and diving coach and the school’s athletic director have released statements to address his untimely passing.

Coach, AD React To John Servati's Death

"John Servati was an extraordinary young man of great character and warmth who had a tremendously giving spirit," UA coach Dennis Pursley said in a statement. "During this incredibly difficult time, our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and to all who had the good fortune to know him. He will forever be in our hearts and a part of the Crimson Tide legacy."

“We are all saddened to learn of the untimely death of John Servati,” Alabama athletic director Bill Battle said in a statement. “He was a model student-athlete who excelled in his sport of swimming, his pursuit of excellence in academics, and his value as a son, brother, friend and teammate to all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to John’s family and friends as we grieve his passing.”

In 2011, the University of Alabama athletic community nearly lost football player Carson Tinker in a similar storm. During the tornado, Tinker and his girlfriend, Ashley Harrison, were thrown 100 yards from a closet within his house. Harrison, who was separated from Tinker during the tornado, did not survive. Tinker escaped with serious injuries and has made a full recovery, playing for the Jackson Jaguars in the NFL.

University officials are reportedly considering a memorial for Servati, according to weather.com. No plans have yet been finalized.

Servati is survived by his parents, Janet and Albert, and his sisters Sarah and Catherine.

– Chelsea Regan