Newly released body and dash cam footage has unveiled the distressing final hours of Dallas Cowboys star Marshawn Kneeland, who died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound on November 6.
The 24-year-old defensive end was pursued by Texas State Troopers after they attempted a traffic stop in Frisco, a suburb near the team's training facility.
The High-Speed Chase and Crash
The incident began at approximately 10:35 PM when troopers initiated a pursuit of Kneeland's vehicle. Officers were initially unaware of the driver's identity and, after running the vehicle's identification number, presumed the car stolen upon discovering it was registered to the NFL player.
During the chase, Kneeland was reportedly driving at speeds nearing 150 mph. Around ten minutes after police lost sight of him, his vehicle collided with a pickup truck. Kneeland then fled the scene on foot, sparking an extensive manhunt.
The Frantic Search and Girlfriend's Ordeal
The search operation involved K-9 units, drones, and state troopers. An empty holster was discovered under the driver's seat of Kneeland's abandoned car, which had come to rest in a grassy area beside the Frisco tollway.
Authorities focused their efforts on a wooded area and a drainage culvert. Officers were heard on camera warning, 'Frisco K-9. If you're in this tunnel, I'm going to send my dog in here. He is going to bite you. This is your last opportunity.' Pepper balls were fired into the tunnels and a drone was deployed, but Kneeland was not located.
Meanwhile, his pregnant girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, arrived at the scene. Footage shows her informing police that Kneeland was armed, had a history of mental illness, and might 'end it all'.
Despite her cooperation and expressed fears for his wellbeing, Mancera was placed in handcuffs and put into the back of a police car while officers searched her vehicle.
The Tragic Outcome
In the early hours of November 6, the widespread search concluded when Marshawn Kneeland was discovered dead. The 24-year-old NFL player's death was ruled an apparent suicide from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The released footage paints a harrowing picture of the night, raising questions about police procedure and highlighting the critical importance of mental health support.
