Denton Ryan Coach Aaron De La Torre: A Legacy of Leadership and Compassion

1. The Tragic Loss of Coach Aaron De La Torre

On October 8, 2024, the Denton Ryan High School community was shocked by the sudden and tragic loss of defensive coordinator Aaron De La Torre. The news was confirmed by Denton Independent School District officials, who expressed their deep condolences to De La Torre's family and the Ryan High School community. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unknown, but the impact of his passing is already being felt across the school and beyond.

De La Torre was more than just a coach; he was a husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. His dedication to his family and his role as a mentor to countless young athletes has left an indelible mark on those whose lives he touched. The Denton ISD released a statement expressing their sorrow and offering support to De La Torre's family during this difficult time, emphasizing the importance of respecting their privacy.

2. A Coaching Legacy Spanning 17 Years

Aaron De La Torre had been coaching for 17 years, with the last seven seasons spent as the defensive coordinator at Denton Ryan High School. His coaching career was marked by a deep commitment to his players and a passion for the game that inspired countless young athletes. Before joining Denton Ryan, De La Torre served as the head coach at Irving High School from 2012 to 2017.

De La Torre's journey into coaching began at his alma mater, Stephen F. Austin, where he was a four-year starter at defensive tackle. After a brief career in the NFL and NFL Europe, he transitioned into coaching, first with Stephen F. Austin and then with Denton Ryan from 2009 to 2011. His return to Denton Ryan marked a significant chapter in his coaching career, during which he played a crucial role in shaping the Raiders' defense.

De La Torre's impact extended beyond the football field. He was known for his ability to inspire confidence in his players and for being a father figure to many young athletes who lacked guidance at home. Family friend Chasity Torti shared that De La Torre's influence went far beyond his immediate family and friends, touching the lives of countless individuals within the community.

Torti described De La Torre as someone who 'touched so many lives.' She noted that he was particularly impactful for kids who didn't have fathers, serving as a father figure to them. 'He loved those kids as his own and they loved him just as much,' Torti said. 'The impact spreads really spread beyond his family and his friends.'

3. The Alleged Assault Investigation

De La Torre's sudden death comes just a week after the Hickory Creek Police Department closed its investigation into an alleged assault involving a Ryan High School football coach and a 12-year-old boy. The case initially came to light after a TikTok video implicated De La Torre as the coach involved.

Multiple sources have confirmed to WFAA that De La Torre was indeed the person implicated in the TikTok video. However, the Hickory Creek Police Department stated that its investigation was closed after meeting with the boy's mother and conducting a full case review. During this meeting, investigators showed the mother all available footage of her son's interactions with De La Torre, as well as all witness statements collected by police at the scene.

The mother decided that although she did not support the actions taken towards her son by an adult, she believed that no criminal activity occurred and chose not to press charges. This decision was made after reviewing all available evidence and witness statements.

The Hickory Creek Police Department has confirmed to WFAA that it is not conducting an investigation into De La Torre's death. The Denton County Medical Examiner has not yet released any information relating to the cause of his death.

4. Tributes and Support for the Family

In the wake of De La Torre's passing, tributes have poured in from across the community. A GoFundMe page has been started to help support his family during this difficult time. Chasity Torti, who organized the fundraiser, emphasized that all donations will go directly to De La Torre's family.

Torti shared that allowing De La Torre's family to grieve without worrying about financial burdens was crucial. 'Aaron would have given the shirt off his back,' she said. 'So it's a no-brainer for everyone to step up and give at this time.'

The community's response to De La Torre's passing reflects his enduring impact on those around him. His legacy as a coach, mentor, and father figure will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and educators alike.

5. Conclusion

The sudden loss of Coach Aaron De La Torre serves as a poignant reminder of the profound influence one person can have on countless lives. As the Denton Ryan High School community navigates this difficult time, they are supported by the outpouring of tributes and support from across the region.

De La Torre's legacy will endure through the countless young athletes whose lives he touched and the community that he served with such dedication and compassion. His memory will continue to inspire future generations to strive for excellence both on and off the field.