Denver Broncos receiver Kenny McKinley, 23, was found dead in his home Monday from an alleged suicide, according to The Associated Press.
According to reports, Arapahoe County Sheriff Grayson Robinson said a female friend of the player called police. She was returning from running an errand with McKinley’s child when she found him shot dead. Police didn’t say if they discovered a suicide note, but did say they believe McKinley died from a self-inflicted gunshot.
‘It’s still part of our investigation and probably nothing we’ll talk about right now,’ Robinson told the AP.
The second-year receiver was listed on the Broncos’ injured reserve list with a leg injury. He played eight games as a rookie last season, contributing mostly on special teams with seven kick returns for 158 yards.
“Everyone with the Broncos is shocked and saddened by the loss of Kenny McKinley,” Broncos owner Pat Bowlen said in a released statement to the media. “He was part of the Broncos’ family and will be greatly missed by our organization. My most heartfelt condolences go out to Kenny’s family and friends.”
Denver has experienced similar tragedies in years past. Defensive back Darrent Williams was murdered in a drive-by shooting in 2007. Running back Damien Nash died after suddenly collapsing during a charity basketball game in St. Louis, Mo., just three months later.
“Kenny had a promising future on the football field, but more importantly, he was a great teammate whose smile and personality could light up the room,” Broncos head coach Josh McDaniels said. “This is a tragic loss for our football team, and his family is in all of our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”