NFL Legend Junior Seau Dead of Apparent Suicide

Junior Seau | Photo Credits: Donald Miralle/Getty Images

Police have confirmed that former NFL star Junior Seau was found dead in his Oceanside, Calif. home Wednesday. The incident is currently being investigated as a suicide.

At 9:35am PT, the Oceanside Police received a 911 call from Seau's current girlfriend stating that the 43-year-old suffered a gunshot wound to the chest. When emergency responders arrived at the scene, attempts to revive Seau were unsuccessful. A handgun was found next to the body, according to police.

In a press conference held outside the home, Seau's sister Annette said, "We would appreciate as a family that you give us some kind of privacy. My brother was a loving brother and a caring citizen, so I would appreciate if you would honor his last day and give us some kind of piece and privacy."

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Seau started his career as the first round draft pick of the San Diego Chargers. He went on to play for the Miami Dolphins and the New England Patriots, totaling 20 seasons in the NFL.

"Everyone at the Chargers is in complete shock and disbelief. We ask everyone to stop what they're doing and send their prayers to Junior and his family," a rep for the Chargers said in a statement.

In 2010, Seau drove his car off of a cliff in Carlsbad, Calif., just after being arrested for allegedly attacking his then-girlfriend. Despite rumors of an attempted suicide, the football star claimed he had fallen asleep at the wheel.

Seau has three children with ex-wife Gina Deboer. The two divorced in 2002.