Steve McNair Found Dead
Posted: July 4, 2009 01:07 PM
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Former Titans quarterback Steve McNair has been killed. Police said McNair suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head in downtown Nashville.
The incident happened near 2nd Avenue South & Lea Avenue in a residence Steve McNair was renting.
The call came into police at 1:35 p.m. A crowd began to gather in the area where Steve McNair's body was found Saturday afternoon.
"When police officers arrived in response to that call, they found two individuals who had been shot to death inside the residence: one female, one male. We now know that the male deceased is Steve McNair. The female deceased has been tentatively identified. We're working to confirm that and then notify her next of kin," said Don Aaron with Metro Police on the situation.
Don Aaron with Metro Police On Steve McNair's Death
That female victim's identity was not released as of 4:20 p.m. Saturday afternoon.
"There were persons who were around the complex today who have been taken to headquarters for questioning," Don Aaron explained. However, he made it clear that there were no suspects in custody at the time.
According to Don Aaron, no suspects have been taken into custody. Several people were being taken to police headquarters for questioning, so police could get information about the circumstances surrounding the shooting deaths.
Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen released the following statement:
Andrea and I were very saddened by the news of Steve McNair's death. He has always felt like part of the Nashville family, and he will be sorely missed.
Several fans expressed shock and saddness in response to the news along with former teamates and other members of the Titans organization.
Many people commented on how Steve was such an important part of the community. Steve McNair opened a restaurant, Gridiron 9 on Jefferson Street in North Nashville. An employee at McNair's restaurant said Steve McNair gave him hope. He said when no one else gave him a chance, Steve hired him immediately.
Titans' owner ‘Bud' Adams Jr. released the following statement on the Titan's web site:
"We are saddened and shocked to hear the news of Steve McNair's passing today. He was one of the finest players to play for our organization and one of the most beloved players by our fans. He played with unquestioned heart and leadership and led us to places that we had never reached, including our only Super Bowl. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family as they deal with his untimely passing."
Hope Hines, NewsChannel 5's Chief Sports Reporter said Brad Hopkins, former All Pro Left Tackle, was very upset by the death of Steve McNair. He said he was dissapointed, and doesn't understand how people can take lives so violently.
Hopkins said this is an example of how no one is immune to violence.
"Steve was my friend, and that's the difference. I remember his first five minutes in the facility. Every walk he took, I was probably right next to him. We fought and bled together," said Hopkins. "Here's a man who was husband and a father. He meant a lot to a lot of people. Not just people on the football field," Hopkins continued.
Jeff Diamond, former President of the Titans commented on Steve McNair's death:
"First of all it's such a tragic, tragic thing. You just hate to see these things happen, and to happen to someone you like and respect and knew so well and had so many great times and moments with; it's a horrible, horrible story."
Steve McNair was 37 years old. He leaves behind a wife Mechelle and four sons: Junior, Steven, Tyler and Trenton.
