Utah Utes Running Back Ty Jordan has been pronounced dead after an "accidental" shooting on Christmas.
Members of the Denton Police Department responded to reports of a shooting at nearly 11 p.m. on December 25. After arriving at the scene, officers discovered Jordan, who had been shot one time, and began applying life-saving measures. Soon thereafter, he was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
"Following a preliminary investigation, we do believe that this was an accidental shooting, where the victim accidentally shot himself," Denton Police Department Public Information Officer Allison Beckwith said.
Jordan was a native of Mesquite, Texas. While attending West Mesquite High School, he ran track and played football. After graduating from West Mesquite High School, he emerged as a talented NFL prospect at the University of Utah. In his freshman season, Jordan ran for nearly 600 yards and six touchdowns in only five games. He ended the year by taking home Pac-12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors.
"On behalf of the entire University of Utah, our love and condolences to Ty Jordan's family, friends, teammates and coaches. We are devastated by this heartbreaking news. To watch Ty on the field was to be thrilled by his athleticism and talent. Rest In Peace, Ty," University of Utah President Ruth V. Watkins.
"Ty's personality and smile were infectious and he made a huge impact on our program in the short time he was with us," Whittingham said in a statement. "He leaves an indelible mark on each of us and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. From the bottom of our hearts, all of us in the Utah Football Family want to say we love you Ty and may you rest in peace," Utah Utes Football Coach Kyle Whittingham added.
Jordan was 19 years old at the time of the shooting.
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