More details have emerged about the tragic death of Utah star running back Ty Jordan last weekend.
Jordan died Friday night from a single gunshot wound to his abdomen, according to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner.
Following a preliminary investigation, police believe the gun “was accidentally discharged by the victim.” The incident occurred at an apartment at the 1100 block of Avenue B in Denton, Texas.
According to the medical examiner’s report, Jordan died Friday at 10:46 p.m. CST at Denton Regional Medical Center.
Jordan was named the Pac-12 Offensive Freshman of the Year after rushing for 597 yards and recording 11 receptions for 126 yards and six touchdowns in five games for the Utes.
“We knew he would be great before he even set foot on our campus,” coach Kyle Whittingham tweeted Saturday. “He was a light, always with a smile on his face. One of the hardest working and most humble guys we’ve seen come through this program. We love you, Ty.”
Jordan’s friend and high school teammate, Gage Smith, told CBS 11 News in Dallas, “Seeing the type of person that kid is and seeing his heart for other people, that’s what I want people to remember about him. … As good as he was, you would want to remember the type of person he is.”
Jordan’s mother, Tiffany, died in August after a battle with cancer.
“We are deeply saddened and shocked to learn of Ty Jordan’s passing early this morning and our thoughts and prayers are with those who loved him dearly, including the young men in our football program,” Utah athletic director Mark Harlan said in a statement Saturday. “Our priority is on supporting his family and the student-athletes, coaches and staff in our football program who are so deeply hurting right now. Coach Whittingham and I are working closely to provide support and resources for our Utah Football family in this extremely difficult time.”