Ray Lewis III, the son of former NFL star and Hall of Famer Ray Lewis, passed away on June 16, 2023, at the age of 28. His death shocked and saddened many fans and friends, who remembered him as a talented and genuine person. But what was the cause of his tragic death? Here is what we know so far.
Accidental Overdose
According to TMZ Sports, Ray Lewis III died of an accidental overdose. The autopsy report obtained by PEOPLE revealed that he had a deadly combination of drugs in his system, including fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine. The report also stated that he had a history of substance abuse and depression.
Ray Lewis III was found unresponsive in his apartment in Casselberry, Florida, by his girlfriend, who called 911. He was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. The Casselberry Police Department confirmed his cause of death in a statement to ET.
Football Career
Ray Lewis III followed in his father’s footsteps and pursued a football career. He was a standout running back at Lake Mary Prep in Florida, where he rushed for over 9,000 yards and scored 100 touchdowns in his high school career. He also played basketball and ran track.
He joined the Miami Hurricanes football team at the University of Miami in 2013, where his father played from 1993 to 1995. However, he did not see much action on the field and transferred to Coastal Carolina University in 2015.
His collegiate career was cut short when he was dismissed from the football team and the university after being indicted by a South Carolina grand jury on a charge of third-degree criminal sexual assault. He was accused of sexually assaulting two women at an apartment near campus in January 2016. After a lengthy investigation, the charges were eventually dropped in 2018.
He finished his college football career with the Virginia Union Panthers in 2017 and went on to play professional indoor football for the Wyoming Mustangs in 2021.
Family and Tributes
Ray Lewis III was the oldest son of Ray Lewis, who played for the Baltimore Ravens from 1996 to 2012 and won two Super Bowls. He also had two brothers, Rahsaan and Rashaan, and a sister, Diaymon.
His family and friends paid tribute to him on social media, expressing their grief and love. His brother Rahsaan wrote on Instagram: “Really can’t believe I’m evening typing this, but RIP big brother. A true angel. I pray you’re at peace now because I know how much you really hurting.”
His sister Diaymon posted on her Instagram Story: “Brownie, I love you with all of my heart. You will always be my first love and truly are the definition of a quintessential brother. To the most genuine and talented person I know, go get your rest baby. And I’m glad you’re at peace. Fly high, baby.”
His father Ray Lewis has not publicly commented on his son’s death as of yet.
Ray Lewis III will be remembered as a young man who had a bright future ahead of him, but sadly succumbed to his demons. We hope that his family and friends find comfort and healing in this difficult time.
