The family of Atlanta native and Indianapolis Colts linebacker Edwin Jackson issued a statement late Wednesday night, thanking supporters for their love, condolences, concern and care.
Jackson, 26, and Jeffrey Monroe, 54,an Uber driver, were killed early Sunday.
Police says both men were struck by a truck driven by Manual Orrgeo-Savala, who was later found to have a blood-alcohol content nearly three times the legal limit.
Visitation will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday at Big Bethel AME Church, 220 Auburn Ave. N.E. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. also at the church.
Here is part of the statement:
“We were blessed to have had an amazing son who lived a life that extended respect, love, and genuine concern to everyone. He showed compassion for his community and strived to be an example to kids who looked up to him
“We have lost a son, a brother, a nephew, and an uncle. The Indianapolis Colts and the National Football League have lost a young and rising star - one who truly loved the game of football, and played it with a passion.
“We thank the City of Indianapolis for embracing Edwin and treating him as one of their own. We also thank Mr. Irsay and the entire Colts organization for allowing Edwin to fulfill his dream of playing the game that he worked so hard for and loved immensely. We are also grateful for the Georgia Southern University and Westlake High School communities, who supported Edwin along his journey to success.
“While we mourn the loss of an amazing young man, we also celebrate his remarkable life and hope that his life serves as an example to young people around the world that, with a plan and hard work, dreams can come true.
“As we grieve our loss, we are aware that the family of Mr. Jeffrey Monroe also grieves the loss of their loved one. We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to them during this time.
“In this darkest moment, we choose to remember Edwin for the wonderful things he accomplished in his short time on earth, including the Edwin Jackson 53 Foundation that he started to empower athletes and youth.”
In lieu of flowers and cards, the family ask that donations be made to the Edwin Jackson 53 Foundation.
Read and sign the online guestbook for Edwin Jackson
Orrgeo-Savala was an undocumented immigrant from Guatemala, who had been deported twice before.
Following the men’s deaths, President Trump tweeted about Orrego-Savala’s immigration status, drawing condemnation from those who said it was inappropriate.
The statement did not mention Trump’s tweet.
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