Former Notre Dame wide receiver DaVonte Neal has been charged with first-degree murder.
Neal, a four-star recruit in Notre Dame’s 2012 recruiting class, played just one season for the Fighting Irish before transferring to Arizona. Neal had been working as an assistant football coach at Idaho State.
According to the Idaho State Journal:
Pocatello police say Neal has been charged with one count of first-degree murder, a class one felony; one count of drive by shooting, a class two felony; and one count of discharging a firearm at a structure; a class two felony. The alleged incident occurred on Nov. 11, 2017, police said. The victim, according to the Associated Press and identified in an ABC 15 story, was Bryan Burns.
The Idaho State Journal reached Idaho State athletic director Pauline Thiros via text message, who offered the following comment:
“I have been in constant contact with (ISU head coach Charlie Ragle) who has known DaVonte’ for many years and never had any knowledge or suspicion of a possible crime of any kind,” ISU Athletic Director Pauline Thiros told the Journal via text. “The news of DaVonte’ Neal’s arrest and charges in Arizona was a great shock. Going forward, we will cooperate in every way possible, safeguard our program and culture, support each other and our students, and allow the legal process to work. The news is devastating and we hope for resolution for all involved.”
Neal has been placed on administrative leave by Idaho State as the school has initiated proceedings to terminate his contract.
Neal played one season at Notre Dame, recording one reception for a loss of five yards and one rush for seven yards. He then spent three years at Arizona after transferring.
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