Authorities have released harrowing details following the murder of Nateal Campbell, the 71-year-old mother of NFL player Calais Campbell, in her Atlanta home. Her son, Ciarre Campbell, 41, has been charged with her death.
Police were dispatched to the residence in the Buckhead neighborhood on Tuesday afternoon for a welfare check. Upon arrival around 12:30 p.m., officers discovered Nateal Campbell deceased inside the townhouse. According to an Atlanta Police Department statement, officers found her with her throat cut.
When officers attempted to enter the property, they found that a male individual had barricaded himself inside. Entry was gained, and the individual was detained and identified as Ciarre Campbell. He was reportedly found in possession of a knife. Jail records indicate Ciarre Campbell faces charges including two counts of murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm or knife during the commission of a felony.
The Campbell family released a statement mourning the loss of their matriarch. "We are devastated to share that the Campbell Family has lost its matriarch, Mrs. Nateal Campbell," the statement read. "While the details of her passing are still being investigated, we take comfort in knowing she is reunited with our father, her beloved Chuck, and in the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We ask for privacy at this time so that we may honor her and share in our overwhelming grief privately and as a family."
Nateal Campbell was a co-founder of the Charles Richard Campbell Foundation, named after her late husband. The charity, which she established with Calais and her seven other children, focuses on teaching critical life skills to young people.
Calais Campbell, a veteran NFL defensive end, recently signed a one-year, $5.5 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens. He is preparing for his 19th season in the league. He previously played for the Arizona Cardinals, Jacksonville Jaguars, Atlanta Falcons, and Miami Dolphins. In 2019, he was honored with the Walter Payton Man of the Year award for his community service and was named to the 2010s All-Decade Team.
The Baltimore Ravens organization extended their condolences, stating, "We extend our deepest condolences and full support to Calais and his family during this difficult time. We ask that everyone please respect their privacy while they grieve from this heartbreaking loss." Similarly, the Arizona Cardinals shared, "At this time of unfathomable tragedy, our hearts are with Calais Campbell and his family. We hope they find strength and comfort in the love, prayers, and support that surround them now and in the days ahead."
Calais Campbell was a second-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft and has been selected to the Pro Bowl six times. He was a first-team AP All-Pro selection in 2017.
