Indianapolis Colts linebacker Edwin Jackson was killed early Sunday morning when he was struck by a suspected drunk driver, according to Indiana State Police.
Jackson was 26 years old.
The Colts released the following statement confirming Jackson's death:
We were heartbroken to hear the news of Edwin Jackson's passing. Edwin was loved by all in the Colts organization. We admired his outgoing personality, competitive spirit and hard-working mentality. He was well-respected among all with whom he crossed paths, and he will be greatly missed in our locker room and throughout our entire organization. We also understand that another person lost his life in the accident, only adding to our sorrow on this day. We are shocked and saddened by this tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of both men during this difficult time.
Colts owner Jim Irsay released his own statement as well via Twitter.
Our hearts and prayers are with Edwin Jackson’s family. Terrific young man, respected and liked by all. Rest In Peace, Edwin.
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) February 4, 2018
Police say that Jackson, along with another man, were standing on the emergency shoulder of the highway near a parked vehicle when another vehicle entered the shoulder and struck them both.
"One of the people struck was thrown into the center lane of I-70," Sgt. John Perrine said in a statement. "Shortly after the crash, and before any 911 calls were received, Trooper Ty Mays was driving through the area and noticed a vehicle in front of him make an evasive maneuver to the left."
"As he slowed to stop for the crash he struck the body of the victim in the center lane," Perrine added.
Perrine later said the driver of the vehicle is believed to have been intoxicated at the time of the crash and was driving without a license.
Jackson spent the previous two seasons with the Colts, appearing in all 16 games in 2016 before spending 2017 on injured reserve.
