Luke Knox, a college football player and the brother of Buffalo Bills tight end Dawson Knox, passed away on August 17, 2022, at the age of 22. His death shocked and saddened the sports community, especially his family and teammates. But what was the cause of his death? Here is what we know so far.
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Luke Knox was found in medical distress in his dorm room
According to NBC News, Luke Knox was discovered by friends in his dorm room at Florida International University (FIU) in “medical distress”. FIU police officers arrived and attempted CPR until rescue arrived and took over. He was transported to a local hospital by Miami-County Fire Rescue and he later died at that hospital.
Luke Knox’s cause of death is still unknown
The Miami-Dade Police Department took over the investigation into Luke Knox’s death, but they did not suspect foul play, Detective Chris Thomas told NBC News. The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s Office has yet to publicize Luke Knox’s cause of death. It is unclear whether an autopsy has been performed or whether there were any signs of injury or illness on his body.
Luke Knox had transferred to FIU from Ole Miss
Luke Knox had played football at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) for three seasons as a linebacker. He graduated from Ole Miss in May 2022 with a degree in business administration. He then transferred to FIU as a graduate student and joined the FIU Panthers football team as a tight end. He had not yet played a game for FIU when he died.
Luke Knox was the brother of Buffalo Bills’ Dawson Knox
Luke Knox was one of five brothers, all of whom played football. His oldest brother, Dawson Knox, is a tight end for the Buffalo Bills in the NFL. Dawson Knox posted a tribute to his brother on Twitter, writing: “Thank you all for the outpouring of love and support for my family. Our hearts are broken but we know Luke is in a much better place now with his savior Jesus.” Dawson Knox also dedicated his touchdown celebration against the Kansas City Chiefs in October 2022 to his late brother, pointing to the sky and writing: “That one’s for you 16.” Luke Knox wore the number 16 jersey at Ole Miss.
Luke Knox was remembered by his coaches and teammates
Luke Knox was described by his coaches and teammates as a passionate, genuine, and loving person who had a positive impact on everyone he met. His former coach at Ole Miss and FIU, Mike MacIntyre, said in a statement: “I had the honor of coaching Luke at Ole Miss and at FIU. While I admired his passion for football, his genuine love for his family and teammates is what I will always remember. He had a special way of making everyone feel comfortable and confident.” FIU Interim President Kenneth Jessell also expressed his condolences to Luke’s family and friends, saying: “Luke’s untimely death is deeply felt among his FIU family, his friends, classmates, teammates, coaches and mentors.”
