Joe McKnight, a former New York Jets running back, was shot and killed in an apparent road rage incident in New Orleans on Thursday, December 1. He was 28.
According to the Associated Press, McKnight was at an intersection in Terrytown when he got into a verbal argument with another man. Sheriff Newell Normand of Jefferson Parish said that the incident occurred at about 2:43 p.m.
An eyewitness told NOLA.com that she was leaving a nearby store when she witnessed the confrontation. The woman said a man was yelling at the athlete, who looked like he was apologizing, when he pulled out a gun and shot McKnight multiple times. She said the shooter then stood over the fallen footballer and said, “I told you, don’t f–k with me,” and fired one more time.
Normand identified the alleged shooter as Ronald Gasser, according to the AP. According to the sheriff, Gasser remained at the scene and then gave his weapon to officers. The 54-year-old is in police custody.
Sheriff’s spokesman Colonel John Fortunate says law enforcement is anticipating charging Gasser, the AP reports.
McKnight was drafted to the Jets in 2010 after playing for the University of Southern California. He played with the team for three years before being cut in training camp in 2013.
He then went on to play just two games with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2014 and left the NFL shortly after that. Members of the football family were quick to react to news of McKnight’s tragic death via social media.
Deeply saddened by the loss of Joe McKnight. This is a terrible tragedy. Everyone loved Joe and we are going to really miss him.
— Pete Carroll (@PeteCarroll) December 2, 2016
I am deeply saddened by the senseless passing of Joe McKnight today. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
— Coach Ed Orgeron (@Coach_EdOrgeron) December 1, 2016
My heart is heavy for Jets Nation tonight. Such a senseless act. RIP Joe McKnight. Once a Jet always a Jet ?
— KristaDeBono (@KristaKimberly) December 2, 2016
Rest In Peace Joe McKnight, Put The Guns Down. pic.twitter.com/KoaLWewf70
— Detroit Moments (@DetroitMoments) December 1, 2016
Can't believe my boy gone S.I.P Joe McKnight
— Muhammad Wilkerson (@mowilkerson) December 1, 2016
RIP my brother Joe McKnight this one hurts bad
— Reggie Bush (@ReggieBush) December 1, 2016
In April, former New Orleans Saints defensive end Will Smith was also shot and killed during an argument that was apparently caused by a fender bender in New Orleans. He was 34.
