Auburn freshman football player Jakell Mitchell was shot and killed early Sunday morning Dec. 14 at Tiger Lodge apartment complex in Auburn.
Head coach Gus Malzahn and athletic director Jay Jacobs both released official statements on the incident.
"I'm devastated and saddened by the passing of Jakell Mitchell," Malzahn said. "My thoughts and prayers are with Jakell's family and friends, who are suffering through this senseless tragedy. I know the Auburn Family is hurting, especially our players and coaches and we are going to love and support them through this difficult time. We have lost a member of our family too young, too soon."
The statement from Jacobs echoed Malzahn's.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jakell Mitchell's family and those who have been impacted by this terrible tragedy," Jacobs said. "This is a very trying time for those close to Jakell, including the student-athletes, coaches, staff and Auburn Family. We will provide counseling and support and do everything we can to help them through the grieving process."
Since the news of the shooting broke, several fellow players, coaches and others involved with the athletic department have tweeted their condolences for Mitchell and his family.
Our thoughts & prayers go out to Jakell Mitchell's family, friends & teammates.
-- Auburn Football (@FootballAU) December 14, 2014
The Auburn Family is grieving the loss of a teammate & friend Jakell Mitchell. We are praying for his family. pic.twitter.com/ZC5PP2nJ6u
-- Jay Jacobs (@jayjacobsauad) December 14, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jakell's family and friends. Auburn encourages those in need to contact the Division of Student Affairs.
-- Auburn University (@AuburnU) December 14, 2014
They got my brother. Lord be with US
-- TriggaTray (@Trigga_Tray28) December 14, 2014
Feel so sick knowing that my boy called me last night and then the next min I hear the terrible news about him .
-- TriggaTray (@Trigga_Tray28) December 14, 2014
Can't be happening... That's like my brother man..can't be true
-- Tre' Williams (@Trew30_) December 14, 2014
My boy was just talking about how good it feel to be back. thats our brother man i cant understand why. i love you bro @AuCommit9_ love you
-- Stanton tru (@TRUitt_thaTRUth) December 14, 2014
My heart breaks for Jakell Mitchell and his family, please pray for them #RIP31
-- Alex Kozan (@AlexKozan) December 14, 2014
Never without a smile,loyalty to those he loved, courage, compassion, & an angel in heaven. RIP Jakell, my best friend. Words arent enough
-- Sean White (@SeanWhiteAU) December 14, 2014
13 to 31...We said were going to hear those numbers at Jordan-hare more times than people could count..To have it all taken away from him...
-- Sean White (@SeanWhiteAU) December 14, 2014
I'm devastated and crushed. Lost a young man too soon with so much promise. Please Pray for Jakell's family & the Auburn Family. No words
-- Rhett Lashlee (@rhettlashlee) December 14, 2014
The sadness I feel right now is overwhelming. My hope is in Jesus. My prayers are that Mitchell family will find Peace in Him also.
— Brian Blackmon (@opelikacoach) December 14, 2014
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