In Loving Memory of Xan Korman

Xan Korman, 20, was living his best life before falling victim to gun violence. In the late hours of Saturday, August 14th, Xan was struck by a handgun while sitting in the front seat of his car. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time. The bullet entered his head, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and despite the heroic efforts of his medical team, Xan Korman was pronounced dead on Thursday, August 19th, 2021.

Xan was an incredible young man who was always there for you, an extremely hard worker, an inspiration to many, and a tremendous friend to all. He was an extremely talented photographer and videographer who excelled at capturing the human spirit. His most recent work from both basketball and the Black Lives Matter protests illustrate his talent at conveying the raw emotion of these events. Other photographers have mentioned Xan’s mentoring of them, as he would critique their work and offer guidance. Xan was truly, and remains to this day, a humble, giving, and selfless young man.

Xan attended Walter Johnson High School (Class of 2019) and was a rising junior at Butler University in Indianapolis, majoring in Creative Media and Entertainment. He had been a photographer and photo editor for the Butler Collegian, the student newspaper. Over his time at Butler, his passion as a photographer parlayed into Xan having an extremely close relationship with members of not just the Butler men’s and women’s basketball teams, but members of the basketball community throughout the country. This past summer, Xan spent the majority of his time chasing his dreams. He traveled to basketball tournaments, workouts, and games all over the country, capturing photos, videos, and more.

In the days since Xan’s passing, his parents have been overwhelmed with the beautiful stories from friends throughout his life, highlighting Xan’s admirable generosity, unbreakable loyalty, true humbleness, and his relentless work ethic.

Xan generously and courageously signed up as an organ donor when he first received his driver’s license, and his parents are working tirelessly with the donation team to ensure that as many usable organs are provided to eligible recipients as possible. Xan’s legacy will continue to live on, and his ultimate gift will be the gift of life.

Xan’s parents, Carolyn and Steve, hope that there can be a lesson learned from their sudden tragedy. First, tomorrow is never promised, so treasure each and every day. No matter how “good” your child might be or no matter how “good” of a parent you are, there is no guarantee for another day. Second, if you are faced with a tragedy like this, Xan’s parents urge families to consider helping other families by donating their organs, as this can truly save lives.

Xan’s parents hope to set up a scholarship fund for other media creatives in the future so that his legacy can continue. Xan’s work can be found on Instagram at @xanshotyou.

We ask that you consider donating, as any amount is sincerely appreciated, to honor Xan’s amazing life. The goal of this is to simply honor Xan and all he has accomplished in his short but incredible life. Donations received here will be used to assist in funeral costs. Any additional money will go towards a scholarship in honor of Xan.

Xan, we will love you and miss you every day. From the bottom of all our hearts, thank you for all of the memories.

May You Rest in Peace.