University of Huston track star Cameron Burrell’s death has officially been ruled a suicide.
The late NCAA Division I athlete was a champion and ran for the University of Houston’s track and field team.
Burrell passed away on August 9 at the age of 26.
The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences confirmed that he suffered a gunshot wound to the head.
His father, Leroy Burrell, who is also the Texas college’s head coach, confirmed his son’s death in a statement that was shared with E! News on Friday.
“On Monday evening, our family’s hearts were broken with the passing of our son, Cameron, who took his own life,” his message read. “We may never know why Cameron made such a decision. We encourage anyone who may be struggling in their lives to reach out for help.”
His father, who is an Olympic gold medalist, added, “You are not alone, and you are surrounded by more people who love and care for you than you may think in a dark moment.”
Leroy had previously confirmed his son’s death in an earlier statement.
“My family is extremely saddened with the loss of our son, Cameron, last night,” Leroy said in a statement on Tuesday, Aug. 10. “We are going through profound sorrow and ask that all of our friends, extended University of Houston family and the track and field community in the U.S. and abroad allow us to gather with our closest family and friends.”
