Anthony Sweat, 27 was killed by a gunshot Tuesday afternoon near Richmond, Virginia, police reported Wednesday. His brother is Washington Football Team defensive end Montez Sweat.
At approximately 4 p.m. on Tuesday, officers received reports that others were scattered in the area along with the shooting. It was determined that Anthony Sweat died at the scene. The reason for the shooting has not been fully determined.
Neither Montez Sweat nor Washington participated in practice on Wednesday. The death of Anthony’s mother earlier this year was the second in his family this year.
Montez Sweat (brother of the victim) plays defensive end for the Washington Football Team. Coach Ron Rivera told Richmond.com that he was not at practice Wednesday in Ashburn, Virginia.
Rivera told the news outlet that it is a tough time for the family, and they are praying for them. “We try to make sure that players understand that we’re here for them. We do have a team psychologist and she’s available, as well as myself” said Riveria to the news outlet.
The Team Has Suffered Two Tragedies In The Recent Days
The team has suffered two tragedies in the last week. Richmond.com reports that safety Deshazor Everett’s girlfriend, Olivia Peters, died last week in a car accident.
He drove his car off the road and into a few trees, which eventually caused it to roll over. As reported by the news outlet, Everett, 29, was hospitalized after sustaining injuries, but he was released shortly after.
Everett suffered serious injuries and was taken to the hospital. The crash is still under investigation.
Montez Sweat has 24 tackles in 10 games this season, his third in Washington. He missed time due to Washington’s reserve/COVID-19 list, and a non-displaced jaw fracture forced him to retire in early September.
Members of the team spoke about their recent hardships at a news conference on Wednesday. NFL wide receiver Terry McLaurin said he wants to support the guys who are enduring hardships that transcend the game of football.
The police are asking anyone with information regarding this shooting, as well as the events that led to it, to contact them.