OCEANSIDE, Calif. (FNN Media) — Longtime San Diego Chargers linebacker and NFL star Junior Seau was found dead in his Oceanside, Calif. home Wednesday morning. Suicide is suspected.
Around 9:35 a.m. police responded to a 911 call at Seau’s residence. Authorities say Seau’s girlfriend made the call after discovering him unconscious in a bedroom in the house.
First responders performed life-saving measures, but were unsuccessful in their attempts to revive him. A handgun was found near his body according to police.
His family streamed through the home as a heavy media contingent gathered outside and law enforcement continued to investigate the scene.
The 43-year-old leaves behind an ex-wife and three children.
TMZ also reported Seau’s family did not report they had any suspicions the former football star was struggling with depression or mental health in recent days.
Seau claimed a 2010 incident in which drove his car off a cliff was not a suicide attempt. He told police he had fallen asleep at the wheel at the time.
Seau was a 12-time Pro Bowl selected linebacker. He was a first-round draft choice of the Chargers in 1990. He also played for the Miami Dolphins and most recently the New England Patriots.
He twice retired from the NFL and officially ended his career following the 2009 season.
The San Diego Chargers confirmed Seau’s death and released the following statement: “Everyone at the Chargers is in complete shock and disbelief right now. We ask everyone to stop what they’re doing and send their prayers to Junior and his family.”
