The pregnant girlfriend of Marshawn Kneeland, the Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman who died by apparent suicide earlier this month, has made an emotional public request for photographs and memories of the late football player.
Emotional plea for memories
Catalina Mancera took to Facebook this past weekend to ask fans and those who knew Kneeland to share any photos they might have of the athlete. The 22-year-old, who is expecting the couple's first child, expressed her gratitude for the support she has received since Kneeland's tragic death on November 6.
"Hi everyone, I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you for all the love, prayers, and messages that have been sent my way," Mancera wrote in her emotional post. "Your support has meant more to me than I can put into words during such a painful time."
She specifically requested that people share "photos of Marshawn whether they're recent, old, funny, or meaningful" to help her preserve his memory. Mancera emphasized that "every photo helps me hold onto a piece of him and the beautiful impact he had on all of us."
Tragic circumstances of death
Kneeland was found dead in the early hours of November 6 from what Frisco police described as "an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound." The tragedy unfolded after the Texas Department of Public Safety attempted to stop Kneeland's vehicle around 10:39 p.m. on November 5.
According to police statements, Kneeland's vehicle was later discovered crashed on the Dallas Parkway. The athlete fled the scene on foot, prompting an extensive search involving K-9 units and drones. During the search, officers received critical information that Kneeland had expressed suicidal thoughts and had texted family members goodbye.
Police audio obtained by TMZ revealed that Mancera had warned dispatchers that Kneeland was "armed" and had a history of mental illness. She reportedly told authorities that "he will end it all," leading to heightened safety precautions for responding officers.
Cowboys honor fallen teammate
The Dallas Cowboys played their first game since Kneeland's death on Monday night, facing the Las Vegas Raiders in an emotional contest. Team members and coaching staff wore shirts featuring Kneeland's picture during the game, which Dallas won 33-16.
The team has planned additional tributes for their next home game against the Philadelphia Eagles on November 22, including a pre-game moment of silence and a video tribute honoring the second-year defensive lineman.
Mancera, who has spoken briefly about the profound impact of Kneeland's death, told the Daily Mail last week that she's "grieving hard right now" and that "it will be a long time before I'll feel ready to talk at any length." She concluded her Facebook message by thanking supporters for "keeping my sweet baby in your hearts" and expressed comfort "knowing how deeply he was loved."
