A heartbreaking tragedy has struck the family of NFL veteran Calais Campbell after his mother, Nateal Campbell, was found dead inside her Buckhead, Atlanta, home. Authorities have charged Campbell’s brother, Ciarre Campbell, in connection with her death.
According to the Atlanta Police Department, officers responded to the residence Tuesday afternoon after receiving a request for a welfare check from a concerned family member. When they arrived, they discovered 71-year-old Nateal Campbell unresponsive inside the townhome.
Investigators allege that 41-year-old Ciarre Campbell fatally attacked his mother. Arrest warrants state that she suffered a fatal neck wound, and authorities say Ciarre was found in possession of a knife. He has been charged with murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a knife during the commission of a felony. The official cause of death has not yet been released by the medical examiner.
Police also revealed they had previously responded to the home on several occasions, including an incident earlier this year involving a possible arson investigation. Investigators noted there had been previous indications of possible mental health concerns involving an individual connected to the residence, though they have not released additional details.
Ciarre Campbell waived his initial court appearance and remains in the Fulton County Jail as the case moves forward. His attorney said his client is presumed innocent and asked the public to respect the family’s privacy.
The Campbell family released a heartfelt statement expressing their grief:
“We are devastated to share that the Campbell Family has lost its matriarch, Mrs. Nateal Campbell. 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.”
Calais Campbell, a six-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman who recently signed with the Baltimore Ravens, has long spoken about the importance of family. Along with his mother and siblings, he helped establish the Charles Richard Campbell Foundation in honor of their late father, who passed away in 2003. The foundation focuses on mentoring young people and teaching life skills.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence surrounding the tragic incident.
