North Carolina Student Mascot Dies After Accident: Jason Ray, a UNC student who performed as the mascot for the school’s basketball team, died after being struck by a car before an NCAA Tournament game. The 21-year-old student was hit by a car while walking on a highway shoulder near his hotel. No charges have been charged against the driver, who stopped immediately, called 911, and was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol. [3/30/07]