Scientists will study former NFL player Phillip Adams‘s brain following his shooting spree that left five dead.
According to CNN, Boston University researchers announced Friday that the brain of Adams, 32, will be studied to see if he suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) after enduring repeated head trauma.
On Wednesday, Adams shot two air condition technicians—killing one—outside a prominent doctor’s home in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
Adams then forced his way into the home of Dr. Robert Lesslie, where the doctor, his wife, and two grandchildren, ages 5 and 9, were killed inside.
York County Coroner Sabrina Gast asked Boston University to study the former player’s brain for signs of CTE, which is common in football due to hard hits and constant rattling of the brain inside the skull that happens from tackles and other plays.
These repeated hits football players endure, known as subconcussive hits and can result in a buildup of an abnormal protein called tau, the outlet reported.
CTE forms when the protein starts gathering around small blood vessels and in the valley of the cortex. The protein spreads out and damages other parts of the brain.
Unfortunately, there is no cure. Symptoms include mood swings, memory loss, and impulsive behavior. Over time it can lead to paranoia, dementia, as well as suicidal thoughts.
According to his former agent, Adams played in the league for six seasons and suffered two concussions in a three-game span while playing with the Oakland Raiders.
His father, Alonzo Adams, said his son was a quiet, good kid but felt football had taken a toll on his life.
Authorities have not found a motive of why Adams forced his way into the doctor’s home.
