Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor has died, a day after he was shot by an intruder at his Florida home. Taylor was shot Monday in the leg, damaging an artery and causing significant blood loss.
“According to a preliminary investigation, it appears that the victim was shot inside the home by an intruder,” Miami-Dade County police said in a statement. “We do not have a subject description at this time.”
The attack came just eight days after an intruder was reported at Taylor’s home. Officers were sent to the home about 1:45 a.m. Monday after Taylor’s girlfriend called 911.
Sharpstein said Taylor’s girlfriend told him the couple was awakened by loud noises, and Taylor grabbed a machete he keeps in the bedroom for protection. Someone then broke through the bedroom door and fired two shots, one missing and one hitting Taylor, Sharpstein said. Taylor’s 1-year-old daughter, Jackie, was also in the house, but neither she nor Taylor’s girlfriend was injured.
Police found signs of forced entry, but have not determined whether they were caused Monday or during the previous burglary.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said the league will honor Taylor’s memory at all games this weekend.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathy to Sean’s family, friends, teammates, and the Redskins’ organization. This is a terrible tragedy involving the loss of a young man who leaves behind many people struggling to understand it,” Goodell said. “Our office is staying in close contact with the Redskins to provide all appropriate support to the club and Sean’s family. We also are working to determine the facts surrounding this tragic event. We will honor the memory of Sean Taylor at all games this weekend.”
