Indianapolis Colts linebacker Edwin Jackson was killed after being hit by a suspected drunken driver early Sunday, Indiana State Police confirmed to NFL.com. He was 26.
Jackson and another man were killed when they were hit by a Ford F-150 while standing next to a vehicle on the shoulder of Interstate 70 in Indianapolis. The truck slammed into the rear of the car and hit Jackson and the other man just before 4 a.m. ET, according to a police report.
The driver of the truck, who police identified as Manuel Orrego-Savala on Monday, fled the scene on foot. He was apprehended a short time later. Police said Orrego-Savala was driving without a license, and they believe he was intoxicated at the time of the incident. He also gave officers a fake name at the time of his arrest.
"We were heartbroken to hear the news of Edwin Jackson's passing," the Coltssaid in a statement. "Edwin was loved by all in the Colts organization. We admired his outgoing personality, competitive spirit and hard-working mentality. He was well-respected among all with whom he crossed paths, and he will be greatly missed in our locker room and throughout our entire organization. We also understand that another person lost his life in the accident, only adding to our sorrow on this day. We are shocked and saddened by this tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of both men during this difficult time."
Police identified the other man killed as Jeffrey Monroe, 54. Based on their initial investigation, police believe Monroe, a ride-sharing operator, stopped his 2018 Lincoln on the side of the road after Jackson, his passenger, became ill.
The incident remains under investigation, police said.
Edwin Jackson loved the game of football and we're thankful to have been a part of his journey. #RIP53 pic.twitter.com/jh8ALwX3SL
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) February 4, 2018
Our hearts and prayers are with Edwin Jackson’s family. Terrific young man, respected and liked by all. Rest In Peace, Edwin.
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) February 4, 2018
It breaks my heart to hear the news about my brother & former teammate Edwin Jackson. He was always such a joy to be around, always smiling and always laughing. An absolutely incredible friend. RIP Ed, my thoughts & prayers are forever with you and your family 🙏🏿 pic.twitter.com/TpdE9GBuDE
— Vontae Davis (@vontaedavis) February 4, 2018
Wow I Really Can’t Believe It🙏🏾🙏🏾#RIP53
— Marlon Mack (@Marlon_Mack25) February 4, 2018
Our thoughts are with his family. https://t.co/X3ZkkeCwCP
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 4, 2018
Talking about a guy that worked hard for everything he’s earned, did it with a smile on his face and never complained. Words can’t explain the positive impact he had on others! Gone way too soon 🙏🏾 https://t.co/T6ZsLp6c7b
— Ironhead Gallon (@IronheadGallon) February 4, 2018
Sad day. I had the opportunity to be his teammate and loved his attitude and how he played the game. https://t.co/TBqHhEN08f
— Lorenzo Alexander (@onemangang97) February 4, 2018
Prayers up for Ed, his family, friends & teammates 🙏🏾 https://t.co/GlA4Zk6kgB
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) February 4, 2018
So sad to see a man who was so positive and had so much passion to be successful gone so soon. We will miss you my brother. https://t.co/bdL4ZBhYvC
— Trent Cole (@Pro_Hunt58) February 4, 2018