An Arkansas State football player was trying to protect his parents from home invaders when he and his stepfather were shot to death in Jackson, Tenn.
Markel Owens, 21, a junior defensive lineman for the Red Wolves, was fatally shot along with Johnny Shivers, 36, during the robbery at a duplex on Wednesday night. Shivers died at the scene, while Owens was pronounced dead after being taken to Jackson-Madison County General Hospital.
“I think you can conclude that he was protecting his mother and stepfather,” Jackson police spokesman Tyreece Miller said of Owens, according to the Clarion-Ledger.
Jerry Scott, the school’s sports information director, noted the tragic day for the Red Wolves.
“We’re deeply saddened and our utmost sympathies go out to his family, teammates and classmates,” Arkansas State Athletic Director Terry Mohajir said in a statement. “Please join me in prayer for so many people who are being impacted by the loss of Markel.”
Investigators concluded that Shivers was specifically targeted. Police also discovered a large amount of marijuana inside the apartment. They deduced the robbers knew that drugs, money or both were in the apartment.
