Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland died early Thursday in Frisco, Texas, from what authorities describe as a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a late-night police chase and subsequent vehicle crash. He was 24 years old, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

The incident began around 10:33 p.m. Wednesday when officers attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Kneeland. He did not pull over, prompting state troopers to pursue the car. Authorities eventually lost visual contact with the vehicle, which was later discovered abandoned after crashing in the southbound lanes of the Dallas Parkway.

Initial reports from the Frisco Police Department stated that Kneeland fled the crash site on foot. In nearby Plano, police confirmed conducting a welfare check at an address linked to Kneeland around 11:40 p.m., though no one was located at the residence.

A police dispatch recording from roughly 11:30 p.m. captured an officer reporting that authorities were speaking with Kneeland’s girlfriend. According to the audio, she expressed concern for Kneeland’s mental state and indicated he was armed, telling officers he had previously shown signs of serious distress and might harm himself. The officer also noted efforts to contact Kneeland’s agent and attempts to encourage communication with Kneeland directly.

Authorities reported locating Kneeland at 1:31 a.m., where he was pronounced deceased. Specific details regarding the location were not provided.

The Dallas Cowboys released a statement expressing deep sorrow over his passing, describing Kneeland as a valued member of the team and extending condolences to his girlfriend, Catalina, and his family. His family also issued a statement reflecting on his legacy, highlighting his character, devotion to loved ones, and the positive impact he had on those around him. They described him as humble, loving, and driven both on and off the field.

Kneeland was in his second NFL season after being selected in the second round of the 2024 draft. He appeared in seven games this season, starting three, and recorded 12 tackles and one sack. Just days before his death, he scored his first career touchdown by recovering a blocked punt during a home game against the Arizona Cardinals.

A native of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kneeland grew up in western Michigan and excelled at Godwin Heights High School before playing at Western Michigan University, where he earned second-team All-MAC honors in 2023. His family had recently suffered another loss when his mother, Wendy, passed away unexpectedly in March 2024. At her memorial service, he spoke about her unwavering support and the emotional challenge of her sudden death.

Kneeland’s passing marks the first time since 2018 that an active NFL player has died during the season. It follows a series of tragic losses connected to the Cowboys organization in recent years, including the 2012 death of linebacker Jerry Brown and the 2020 passing of strength and conditioning coach Markus Paul.

Kneeland is remembered not only as a promising young player but also as someone whose presence extended far beyond football, leaving a lasting impact on teammates, coaches, friends, and family.