Ray Anthony Lewis III.Photo:AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack
AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack
The Casselberry Police Department in Florida responded to a medical emergency call at 5:34 p.m. on Wednesday, and found the 28-year-old unresponsive in a central Florida home, per the department.
Lewis was reportedly not breathing when police arrived, and a friend was “screaming in the background he needs Narcan.” An officer then deployed their “department-issued Narcan” — which is used for a narcotic overdose — to no response.
Narcotics and alcohol were reportedly present at the scene, and among the items found were an antianxiety pill, a used needle, and a plastic bag near a beer can, per police.
“This investigation is closed. The evidence and witness accounts show this incident to be a tragic accident. Our sympathies go out to the Lewis family and friends,” the department shared in a statement to PEOPLE. “An autopsy will need to be completed to determine the cause of death.”
Ray Lewis III with father Ray Lewis.AP Photo/Lynne Sladky
AP Photo/Lynne Sladky
He finished his college career with the Virginia Union Panthers in 2017, and played indoor football for the Wyoming Mustangs in 2021. He was also an aspiring rapper, droppingsingles and music videos on his social media account.
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As previously reported, the athlete’s younger brother,Rahsaan Lewis, shared the news of his sibling’s death on Thursday via Instagram.
“Really can’t believe I’m [even] typing this butRIP big brother🕊 💫,” Rahsaan wrote. “A true angel. I pray you’re at peace now because I know how much you [were] really hurting.”
He then added that his brother’s niece “[is going to] miss you but she will hear about you over and over.”
“Just watch over us all, big bruh. Be our guardian,” he wrote. “I promise I’ll make you smile and proud.”
PEOPLE reached out to reps for Lewis' father for comment on Friday.
Lewis has five siblings — brothers Rahsaan, Rayshad Lewis and Ralin Lewis, and sisters Diaymon Lewis and Kaitlin Lewis — most of whom also shared tributes to their late brother on social media.
source: people.com
