*Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland died early Thursday after authorities in Frisco, Texas, said he fled a traffic stop, ran from the scene of a crash, and later took his own life.
According to The Associated Press, police stated that the 24-year-old was initially pursued by Texas Department of Public Safety troopers for a traffic violation Wednesday night, with Frisco officers joining the chase soon after the vehicle failed to stop. Officers said they temporarily lost sight of the vehicle before discovering it had crashed. Kneeland reportedly ran from the site on foot, and during the search, dispatchers relayed information that those close to him feared he intended to harm himself. One dispatcher told officers that loved ones received a group message from Kneeland “saying goodbye. They’re concerned for his welfare,” according to Broadcastify recordings.
Another dispatcher informed officers that they had spoken with Kneeland’s girlfriend, telling police, “She’s saying he is armed and has a history of mental illness. And her quote was, ‘He will end it all.’” Police later confirmed that Kneeland died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound roughly three hours after the crash.
During the search, officers repeatedly attempted to contact him by phone and used a drone to help locate him, according to the Broadcastify audio. By Thursday night, NFL teams across the league began offering tributes, and the Denver Broncos held a moment of silence ahead of their game against the Las Vegas Raiders while displaying his image on the scoreboard.
Scroll to continue reading
Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, said, “I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” adding, “Marshawn poured his heart into every snap, every practice and every moment on the field. To lose someone with his talent, spirit and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words.”
Fellow players across the league expressed grief as well, including Solomon Thomas, who wrote on social media, “I wish you knew it was going to be (OK)… I wish you knew how bad we wanted you to stay.” Tampa Bay’s Sterling Shepard added, “It hurts your heart,” emphasizing how essential it is for players to check on one another amid the pressures of the sport.
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Antonio Brown Arrested After Extradition on Attempted Murder Charge | VIDEO
Sign up for our Free daily newsletter HERE.
