(5MinNewsBreak.com) – In a new case of a famous athlete falling victim to crime, Diondre Overton, a former Clemson receiver who twice helped his team to national championship victories, has died after he was gunned down.
According to the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office, Overton, 26, was fatally shot at a party in Greensboro, North Carolina, and was declared dead at the scene.
The deputies were first called to the scene around 2:30 a.m. because of a noise complaint and later returned as more details about the shooting emerged, The New York Post reports.
The Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that a homicide investigation is currently ongoing.
Overton was celebrated for his significant contributions to Clemson’s football successes in 2016 and 2018.
In a heartfelt tribute on social media, the school stated, “Clemson Football and the entire Clemson Family mourns the passing of Clemson alumnus Diondre Overton. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
During his four years at Clemson, Overton completed 52 receptions for a total of 777 yards and scored seven touchdowns.
His leadership and performance earned him the role of senior team captain in 2019.
Reflecting on Overton’s death, Clemson coach Dabo Swinney shared, “It took the wind out of my body this morning. He truly was one of the sweetest-spirited kids we’ve had come through here. My heart hurts.”
Prior to their game against Appalachian State, Clemson held a moment of remembrance for Overton.
Trent Pearman and Rob Billings, two players who wear the number 14 as Overton did, led the team in his honor.
The university also placed a Clemson balloon and flowers next to a plaque bearing Overton’s name on campus.
Despite not being drafted into the NFL, Overton continued his football career in other leagues, including the CFL, the European League of Football, the USFL’s Philadelphia Stars, and most recently, the UFL, where he was selected by the Memphis Showboats in the dispersal draft this year.
Tributes from former Clemson teammates began flooding social media.
Bengals star receiver Tee Higgins expressed his grief on Instagram, stating, “Brotha I miss you already man. I love you 5L. I’m hurtin bad bout this right now.”
Cardinals defensive end Xavier Thomas also shared his feelings, posting, “1of1 most purest genuine happy souls. I love you to death man. Doing it all for you dawg. Fly high. See you on the other side brother.”
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