Tragic Death of Dallas Cowboys Defensive End Marshawn Kneeland
Police dispatch audio obtained Thursday revealed details about what happened before Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland‘s death following a police chase in Frisco. Kneeland, 24, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound Thursday morning, authorities said. In an audio recording obtained by The Dallas Morning News on Thursday, police said they were talking with his girlfriend at about 11:30 p.m. Wednesday.
His girlfriend, who was not identified by police, told police Kneeland was armed, had a history of mental illness, and that “he will end it all,” according to the recording. Police said she was trying to contact his agent as they were trying to get her to contact Kneeland, according to the recording. At about 11:45 p.m., police advised each other to search for Kneeland in pairs and to “be careful” because he was armed.
Around 11:55 p.m., police said they were on the phone with the NFL, which mentioned that Kneeland had already texted his family goodbye, according to the recording. This information highlights the seriousness of the situation and the concern for Kneeland’s well-being. The police were taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
The Incident Unfolds
At about 10:33 p.m. on Wednesday, Texas Department of Public Safety troopers attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation on the northbound lanes of the Dallas North Tollway near Keller Springs Blvd, Frisco police said. The driver refused to stop, resulting in a pursuit where troopers lost sight of the vehicle, which was later located abandoned near the southbound lanes of Dallas Parkway near Warren Parkway, police said.
Initial reports showed that Kneeland fled the scene on foot, police said. Though the details are unclear, police suspect Kneeland returned to his vehicle for the gun before leaving again, according to the dispatch audio. Officers established a perimeter and searched the area with the assistance of K-9 and drone units.
DPS troopers, along with Frisco police, found the driver, Kneeland, dead at about 1:31 a.m. Thursday from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said. No further details about the incident were immediately available. The investigation is ongoing, and more information will be released as it becomes available.
Mental Health Resources
The tragic death of Marshawn Kneeland highlights the importance of mental health resources and support. It is essential to recognize the signs of mental illness and to seek help when needed. There are several resources available for those struggling with mental health issues, including:
- The Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line: Grant Halliburton Foundation initiative connects North Texans with mental health resources customized to each caller. 972-525-8181 or HereForTexas.com.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 24-hour crisis hotline at 800-273-8255. Confidential online chat is available at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
- Crisis Text Line: To get 24-hour support, text “HOME” to 741741. More information at crisistextline.org.
- North Texas Behavioral Health Authority: 24-hour crisis hotline. 866-260-8000 or ntbha.org.
- Suicide and Crisis Center of North Texas: Speak to a trained counselor on the 24-hour hotline at 214-828-1000, 800-273-8255 or sccenter.org.
These resources are available to anyone struggling with mental health issues, and it is essential to seek help when needed. The importance of mental health support cannot be overstated, and it is crucial to prioritize one’s well-being.
Tributes and Reflections
Tributes poured in from across the globe as NFL teams honored the late Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman. The NFL community came together to pay their respects to Kneeland, and his memory will live on through the lives he touched.
After the moment of silence, public address announcers at each stadium will reportedly read a message emphasizing mental health resources. The NFL is taking a proactive approach to raise awareness about mental health and to encourage players to seek help when needed.
Multiple Cowboys players, past and present, have offered condolences to Kneeland’s family this week. The outpouring of support from the NFL community is a testament to the impact Kneeland had on those around him.
