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2008
FORMER NFL QB STEVE MCNAIR DEAD AT 36
2009-07-06
Three time NFL Pro Bowl QB Steve McNair was found dead of what authorities describe as ‘multiple gunshot wounds’ on Saturday morning in Nashville, Tennessee. His body was located along with that of a woman, Sahel Kazemi, who has been identified as a ‘friend’ of McNair. Kazemi had a single gunshot wound to the head, and a handgun was discovered near her body. While police have so far been tight lipped about their investigation there is growing speculation that it is a murder/suicide scenario which raises very dubious questions about the nature of McNair’s relationship with Kazemi.McNair’s most famous moment in the NFL was likely with the Tennessee Titans in the 2000 Superbowl, where he led a drive that fell a single yard short from tying the game and forcing overtime. He played most of his career in Tennessee though had a brief stint with the Baltimore Ravens before retiring after the 2008 season. McNair finished his career as one of only three NFL QB to pass for 30,000 yards and rush for 3,500 yards, joining Steve Young and Fran Tarkenton in that exclusive club.
Nashville Police spokesman Don Aaron said that McNair’s wife was understandably upset though at this time is not a suspect and without saying so explicitly strongly implied a murder/suicide:
"At this juncture, we do not believe she is involved. Nothing has been ruled out, but as far as actively looking for a suspect tonight, the answer would be no."
McNair’s oldest brother, Fred McNair indicated that he had no knowledge of Kazemi but had fond memories of his deceased sibling:
"It's still kind of hard to believe. He was the greatest person in the world. He gave back to the community. He loved kids and he wanted to be a role model to kids."
McNair’s agent, Bus Cook, issued the following statement:
"The families of Steve McNair in Mississippi and Tennessee appreciate the concern, thoughts and prayers during this difficult time of our loss of a husband, father and son. The family requests everyone would allow them time to mourn. The McNair Family appreciates and continues to request your prayers at this time."
Given the uncertainty surrounding many of the circumstances of his death, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s office provided this terse statement:
"We don't know the details, but it is a terrible tragedy and our hearts go out to the families involved.”
Former teammate Samari Rolle shared these memories:
"If you were going to draw a football player, the physical part, the mental part, everything about being a professional, he is your guy. I can't even wrap my arms around it. It is a sad, sad day. The world lost a great man today."
Former Titans GM Floyd Reese added:
"I am deeply saddened to learn of today's tragic news regarding the death of Steve McNair. He was a player who I admired a great deal. He was a tremendous leader and an absolute warrior. He felt like it was his responsibility to lead by working hard every day, no matter what."
Adding to the tragedy of McNair’s death is the almost certain forthcoming soap operatic details about his relationship with Kazemi. Kazemi reportedly worked as a waitress at a ‘Dave and Buster’s’ restaurant frequented by McNair and his family, yet lived in a very upscale area of downtown Nashville. Several days earlier, Kazemi had been arrested on a DUI charge while driving a $45,000 Cadillac Escalade registered jointly to her and McNair.
Police are conducting an autopsy and have tentatively scheduled a press conference for Monday to release further details surrounding the tragedy.












