New details have emerged in the tragic death of Bills defensive lineman Ed Oliver’s 2-year-old son.
Oliver’s son reportedly drowned in a swimming pool at the defensive tackle’s Texas home nearly two months ago, TMZ Sports reported Saturday.
Local officials responded to a life-in-danger call at Oliver’s home on June 28, with first responders being told upon arrival that Oliver and his wife found their son unresponsive in their pool, per TMZ.
The toddler was then rushed to a nearby hospital before being pronounced dead at 7:18 p.m.
Oliver, 28, was also reportedly seen speaking with officials outside of his home before breaking down into tears, TMZ reported.
There is an ongoing investigation into what exactly occurred, but seemingly nothing has been resolved, according to the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle.
News of the child’s tragic death initially broke Saturday morning, with ESPN and NFL Network insider Cameron Wolfe reporting that a source close to Oliver said he is asking for “privacy and prayers at this very difficult time.”
“On behalf of the entire Buffalo Bills organization, we want to publicly express our condolences to Ed Oliver and his family on the devastating loss of his son,” Bills general manager Brandon Beane said in a statement. “It’s an unthinkable tragedy for any parent.
“We will continue to support Ed and his family as we all grieve this tragic loss.”
Oliver, who was drafted by the Bills with the No. 9 pick of the 2019 NFL Draft, has become a staple of Buffalo’s defense as he’s set to enter his eighth NFL season.
He reported to Bills’ training camp July 28 and had been participating regularly in practices.
First-year Bills coach Joe Brady said Oliver missed Thursday’s joint practice with the Browns because of an unspecified injury.
