Former NFL player Donald’ Reche’ Caldwell was shot & killed in his hometown of Tampa, Florida, on Saturday night. He was 41.
According to TMZ, while on his way out to town with his girlfriend, a group of people jumped out of the bushes, attempting to rob him.
Reche’s girlfriend says that he was “ambushed.”
Sources report that the former New England Patriot was shot in the leg and chest. Reche died in the ambulance while being transported to the hospital; his mother informed the publication.⠀⠀⠀⠀
“He was a good person who smiled all of the time,” Deborah Caldwell told the publication. “He tried to help everyone he could. He was the type of guy who would take his shirt off his back and give it to you.”
Reche played in the league for six seasons in the early 2000s for teams, including the San Diego Chargers, New England Patriots, Washington Redskins, St. Louis Rams. He also assisted in leading the University Of Florida Gators to the SEC Championship in 2000.
In the wake of the news, many former teammates, coaches, fellow players, and teams throughout the league took to social media to expressed their condolences.
“I am saddened to hear the news about Reche. He is remembered for his solid contributions to our team. My thoughts and prayers are with Reche’s family,” Patriots coach Bill Belichick said in a statement.
“Always kept us laughing and lighthearted. Always had the biggest smile. Always had the greatest stories. Sad to hear about the passing of my teammate Reche Caldwell. May the Lord comfort his family during this time,” Benjamin Watson tweeted, as Tom Brady honored the baller in story posts.
