Confirmation has been received from the Nashville police that former Tennessee Titans’ quarterback Steve McNair was found fatally shot in a condominium near downtown Nashville earlier today.
A female, who has now been identified as Sahel Kazemi, was also found fatally wounded in what many believe could be a possible murder/suicide. Police claim that a pistol was found very close to Kazemi's body and noted that she died of a single gun shot wound to the head while McNair suffered multiple shots including one to the head.
Sources at CNN.com are reporting that Kazemi is McNair's girlfriend and go on to say that the scene of the murder was her residence. The same sources also claim that the former quarterback was a frequent visitor.
Details are also emerging on a DUI arrest two days ago in which Kazemi was driving a black Escalade, registered in hers and McNair’s name. Kazemi was booked for driving under the influence and refusing to take a breath test. McNair later bailed her out according to a local bondsman.
McNair, who retired after the 2007 season, spent 11-years with the Titans and his final two years with the Baltimore Ravens.
Following news of the crime an outpouring of emotion from friends, fans, teammates and NFL personnel hit the airwaves.
Titans owner K.S. "Bud" Adams, Jr. issued the following statement shortly after hearing the news.
"We are saddened and shocked to hear the news of Steve McNair's passing today. He was one of the finest players to play for our organization and one of the most beloved players by our fans. He played with unquestioned heart and leadership and led us to places that we had never reached, including our only Super Bowl. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family as they deal with his untimely passing."
Nashville Mayor Karl Dean discussed McNair’s impact on the city and the fans of Nashville.
Nashville will always be grateful to Steve McNair for his talent, his leadership and most of all his courage. His selfless style of play endeared him to the fans of Nashville and all of Tennessee. His leadership of the Super Bowl team of 1999 will always have a distinctive place in Nashville sports history. Steve and his family are in our hearts and prayers.
Undoubtedly more information will come to light following Sunday's scheduled autopsy.
Steve McNair leaves behind a wife and four sons.
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