HOUSTON (AP) — A dramatic vehicle pursuit involving Dallas Cowboys player Marshawn Kneeland escalated to speeds reaching 160 mph (258 kph), culminating in a tragic conclusion when he was found dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. This incident unfolded early in the morning hours of November 6, hours after Kneeland had been pursued by law enforcement officers attempting a traffic stop in suburban Dallas.
Kneeland, just 24 years old, first came under police attention in the evening of November 5. Initially, authorities suspected the vehicle he was driving, a Dodge Charger, had been stolen. During the pursuit that began at around 10:33 p.m., Texas state troopers reported that Kneeland's speed exceeded 145 mph (233 kph), with some officers estimating speeds up to 160 mph (258 kph).
After a crash around 10:42 p.m. involving the Charger and a Ford F-350 truck, Kneeland abandoned the vehicle. A distraught woman whose truck was hit described the harrowing experience to police, recounting how she noticed Kneeland’s fast-approaching vehicle in her rearview mirror before the collision.
As the search for Kneeland intensified, officers employed various tactics, including K-9 units and drones, to locate him. They explored nearby wooded areas and drainage tunnels, even firing pepper balls into the tunnels in an attempt to provoke a response. By approximately 1 a.m. on November 6, authorities learned that Kneeland was the suspect they were pursuing. Confusion persisted, however, as they initially believed the vehicle chase was related to a stolen car.
Throughout this chaotic search, Kneeland’s family and friends expressed concern for his safety, as he had sent goodbye messages prior to the incident. His girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, who had been present at the scene but was initially uncooperative with police, later aided officers in their search. Her statements highlighted a growing fear that Kneeland might hurt himself.
Despite the exhaustive search efforts that included questioning witnesses and looking for signs of Kneeland, it wasn't until 30 minutes later that authorities found his body inside a portable toilet. The tragic discovery marked the end of a frantic night for both law enforcement and Kneeland’s loved ones.
In the aftermath, Mancera shared her grief through a heartfelt Facebook post, expressing disbelief that her “sweet boy” was truly gone and longing for the chance to hold him one last time. She also mentioned how much he meant to her and anticipated their reunion in the afterlife.
The Dallas Cowboys organization responded to the tragedy by establishing a memorial fund to support Mancera, who is pregnant with the couple’s child, acknowledging the profound loss shared by Kneeland’s family, friends, and fans. The incident highlights significant issues related to mental health and the heartbreaking impact of suicide.
EDITOR'S NOTE: In the U.S., anybody struggling with thoughts of suicide or in crisis can reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or visiting their online chat at 988lifeline.org.
