Former Virginia Tech Hokies defensive back Keion Carpenter—who also played for the Buffalo Bills and Atlanta Falcons in the NFL—died Thursday, according to a family spokesperson.
Reporter Bruce Cunningham passed along the confirmation, noting Carpenter died at 6:47 Thursday morning.
WTKR.com noted Wednesday the Virginia Tech football team tweeted a statement from former coach Frank Beamer praising Carpenter for his play and "heart," although the tweet was eventually deleted.
According to the Daily Press, a family member called to deny initial reports of Carpenter's death. However, Virginia Tech and Beamer posted the following Thursday morning:
BREAKING
Sad news as family of former #Hokies S Keion Carpenter confirms his passing.