Washburn University football player, Dwane Simmons and NY Giants draft pick Corey Ballentine, were victims in an off-campus shooting in Topeka, Kansas that resulted in the death of Simmons and Ballentine being injured.
A spokesman for the Topeka Police Department told NBC News police responded around 12:45 a.m. to reports of gunfire about four blocks from the university. When they arrived, Simmons was found dead in the street. Ballentine survived and was taken to a local hospital with a non-life threatening gunshot wound from the same incident.
Washburn University president Jerry Farley said, “Both Dwane and Corey have been great examples and representatives of the football team and of Washburn University in general. This was a terrible way to end a day which should have been a day of celebration and a day to look forward to Dwane’s upcoming year at Washburn and the beginning of Corey’s professional career.” Farley said Ballentine is expected to make a full recovery.
Washburn Coach, Craig Schurig, called the news about Simmons “heartbreaking” and stated “Dwane is one of the most energetic and well-liked players I have ever coached at Washburn. Dwane’s infectious smile and love for football and his teammates was truly inspirational. Our prayers of healing go out to his family, his parents Navarro and Yasmine Simmons and Chaquilla Williams.”
The Giants have been made aware of “the tragic situation and continue to gather information.” The team said in a statement, “We have spoken to Corey, and he is recovering in the hospital. Our thoughts are with Dwane Simmons’ family, friends and teammates and the rest of the Washburn community.”
Our prayers are with both the Simmons and Ballentine families ??
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