The family of NFL veteran Calais Campbell is facing an unthinkable tragedy after the football star’s mother was found dead inside her Atlanta home — and his own brother was arrested in connection with the case.
Nateal Campbell, 71, the mother of the Baltimore Ravens defensive end and his seven siblings, was found unresponsive at her townhouse on Tuesday afternoon, according to police.
When officers arrived, they said they found a man barricaded inside the home. He was later identified as Ciarre Campbell, one of Calais Campbell’s older brothers.
Ciarre was taken into custody and is being held at the Fulton County Jail. He is facing charges of murder, aggravated assault and possession of a knife or firearm.
Authorities said Ciarre has a history of alleged criminal activity and mental health concerns.
The heartbreaking case has stunned the Campbell family, which released a statement confirming Nateal’s death and asking for privacy as investigators continue working to determine exactly what happened.
“While the details of her passing are still being investigated, we take comfort in knowing she is reunited with our father, her beloved Chuck, and in the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” the family said.
An attorney for Ciarre Campbell also spoke out, telling WSB-TV that the case will have its day in court.
“We look forward to his day in court,” the attorney said. “I’m honored to defend him and, most importantly, the Campbell family, I’m asking on their behalf that the public respect their privacy at this time.”
Calais Campbell, a longtime NFL standout, was selected in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft and has built a reputation as one of the league’s most respected defensive players.
Now, away from the field, his family is grieving a devastating loss while the criminal case against his brother moves forward.
The investigation remains ongoing.