The Minnesota Vikings announced the death of former defensive back Ronnell Whitaker. He was 46 years old.
His family confirmed Whitaker’s death on Sunday, February 22, and released a statement referring to him as a “beloved son, brother and friend.” His death comes a day after Vikings was widely received Rondell Moore died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in Indiana at the age of 25.
Ronnell Whitaker’s cause of death
Whitaker’s cause of death has not been released by the Vikings or his family. His family simply said they were “deeply saddened to share the passing” of Whittaker, who “lived a life of passion, perseverance and purpose,” according to the Vikings.
“He was a gifted athlete who proudly played high school football for Lake Taylor High School in Norfolk, Virginia, and college football for the Virginia Tech Hawkeyes, where his talent, determination and leadership on the field made a lasting impact,” the family statement said.
Read more | Rondell Moore’s cause of death: Vikings WR was found with a suspected gunshot wound
“Ronnell went on to fulfill his professional dreams in the National Football League, signing as a free agent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003. Throughout his career, he also played for the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions, and later continued his football journey in the Canadian Football League with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers before retiring from professional football in 2010,” the family said, adding that he was also “a defensive backs coach at Chanhassen High School from 2014 to 2018 and has been CEO/Owner of privately held Whitaker Group, LLC, specializing in transportation transactions and short sales since 2011.
They added: “While many knew him for his athletic accomplishments, those closest to him knew him best for his generous heart, unwavering loyalty and deep love for his family. He was a protector, a teacher and a source of strength and laughter to all who had the blessing of knowing him. During this extremely difficult time, we ask for prayers, love and privacy as our family mourns this tremendous loss and celebrates the life of a man who meant so much to so many.”
The family added that details regarding funeral arrangements and memorial details will be released later.
Rondell Moore dies
Moore died a few hours before Whittaker. Police in Moore’s hometown of New Albany, Indiana, were called to a property on the night of Saturday, February 21. He was found in a parking garage and was later taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
A post-mortem examination is scheduled for Sunday.
Read more | Rondell Moore reached out to Chiefs Hollywood star Brown hours before death: ‘You weren’t alone’
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rondell Moore,” the Vikings said in a statement. “As we work to understand the facts, we have spoken with the Rundell family to offer our condolences and the full support of the Minnesota Vikings.
The Vikings added: “We have also been in communication with our players, coaches and staff, and will provide counseling resources and emotional support to anyone who needs them. Our thoughts are with Rondell’s family and friends during this devastating time.”
Investigators said Moore was found in a parking garage with what was believed to be a gunshot wound. New Albany Police Department Chief Todd Bailey said the investigation is still ongoing, according to WLKY.
