NFL star killed in Super Bowl tragedy

THE NFL was left heartbroken hours out from the start of the Super Bowl after a star was killed in horrible circumstances.

Edwin Jackson’s death has shocked the Colts.

NFL star Edwin Jackson was struck by a “drunk driver” after he had fallen ill in his cab and was waiting beside the road, police confirmed.

Jackson, 26, was one of two people killed in the horror crash on Interstate 70 in Indiana, on the eve of the Super Bowl, The Sun reports.

Indiana State Police said Jackson was using a ride sharing service at around 4am when he became ill and his driver, Jeffrey Monroe pulled to the side of the road on I-70.

Suddenly, a Ford pick-up truck veered onto the hard-shoulder, striking the taxi cab, Jackson and Monroe.

Edwin Jackson after a game against the Titans.

Police said in a statement: “One of the people struck was thrown into the centre lane of I-70.

“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 manoeuvre to the left.

“Mays then spotted the wreckage along the right side of the road and activated his emergency lights. As he slowed to stop for the crash he struck the body of the victim in the centre lane.”

The 37-year-old driver of the pick-up truck attempted to flee on foot, but was caught by police.

Sergeant John Perrine said: “It is believed [the driver] was intoxicated and was driving without a license.

“He was transported to the Marion County Jail, the result of the test for intoxication is pending.”

Indianapolis Colts have paid a heartbreaking tribute to the star: “We were heartbroken to hear the news of Edwin Jackson’s passing.

Edwin Jackson died in the collision.

“Edwin was loved by all in the Colts organisation. 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 organisation.

“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.”

Jim Irsay, owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts tweeted: “Our hearts and prayers are with Edwin Jackson’s family. Terrific young man, respected and liked by all. Rest In Peace, Edwin.”

It is with a heavy heart that we share the loss of one of our own.

Edwin Jackson always brought a smile to our locker room and the community. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.

We will miss him greatly: https://t.co/Vuql2FD59R pic.twitter.com/7gVR9PvmuA

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) February 4, 2018

RIP Big Bro You Will Def Be Missed, Ain't No Life Worth Being Taken Because Of Dumb Decisions!

— Malik Hooker (@MalikHooker24) February 4, 2018

Lost For Words. Great Person, Teammate, Brother. Will Be Missed Man! God Has A Better Plan My Dude! 🙏🏾 https://t.co/ah3vSTJrJe

— Anthony Walker Jr. (@__AWalkJr) February 4, 2018

— This story originally appeared on thesun.co.uk

Originally published as NFL star killed in Super Bowl tragedy