A Division II football player was shot and killed in Charleston, West Virginia, in what police are investigating as a home invasion, according to the Associated Press.
Jirek Ziare Harrington, a 21-year-old linebacker from West Virginia, was the victim of the shooting and was found inside his apartment building on Wednesday.
According to the Associated Press, Charleston Police Lt. Tony Hazelett released a statement about the incident, saying, “Several gunshots were heard during a disturbance in the hallway and inside the apartment.”
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A football on the field before the game between the TCU Horned Frogs and the Long Island Sharks at Amon G. Carter Stadium. (Tim Heitman-Imagn Images)
Hazelett added that Harrington suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene when emergency responders arrived.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Jilek's family as they mourn the loss of this remarkable young man,” West Virginia State University President Eric S. Cage said in a letter to the university's students, faculty and staff.
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Vice President of Intercollegiate Sports Nate Burton added, “Jilek embodied the essence of a student-athlete and was a leader not only on campus but in the community. He was the kind of young man who would start a GoFundMe at Christmas to help families in need.”
Police added that they have no suspect information at this time.
A football and helmet before the start of an IHSAA college football game on Friday, Aug. 30, 2024, at Marian University. (image)
Harrington is spending his senior season at West Virginia State University this year and played a key role in the team's win over Barton University last week, recording eight tackles and one sack.
Before WVS plays its home opener against Carson-Newman, a moment of silence will be held for Harrington, who previously attended the university and also played at Division II Erskine College.
APAC 12 end zone goalpost markers are installed at Folsom Field prior to the game between the Arizona State Sun Devils and the Colorado Buffaloes. (Ron Chenoy – USA Today Sports)
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Burton added that donations to a fund set up by the athletic department in Harrington's memory will be distributed to Charlotte organizations that continue his charitable work.
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