Mother of former Atlanta Falcons player found dead, brother arrested

Police say 71-year-old mom was killed

Atlanta police detained a 41-year-old man and discovered a 71-year-old woman deceased inside a Buckhead townhome during a welfare check, according to police.  

ATLANTA – A welfare check at a Buckhead townhome Tuesday afternoon turned into a homicide investigation after officers found a 71-year-old woman dead inside the home and detained a man who had barricaded himself inside.

Family members have identified the victim as Nateal Campbell, the mother of former Atlanta Falcons player and current Baltimore Ravens defensive end Calais Campbell. However, Atlanta police have not officially released the identities of either the victim or the suspect.

Welfare check leads to homicide investigation

What we know:

Atlanta police responded around 1:36 p.m. Tuesday to the Habersham Townhomes in the 3500 block of Roswell Road after a family member requested a welfare check.

When officers arrived, they learned a 41-year-old man had barricaded himself inside the home. Officers forced entry, detained the man and searched the residence.

Inside, they found a 71-year-old woman unresponsive. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators believe the woman’s death stemmed from a domestic incident involving her son.

Charges filed

What we learned:

According to Fulton County Jail records, Ciarre Campbell was booked on charges of murder, aggravated assault and possession of a knife or gun during the commission of a felony.

Arrest warrants obtained by FOX 5 Atlanta state the suspect used a knife to cut the victim’s throat.

While jail records identify the suspect, Atlanta police have not officially confirmed his identity.

Family, Ravens release statements

What they’re saying:

The Campbell family confirmed overnight that the victim was Nateal Campbell.

“We are devastated to share that the Campbell Family has lost its matriarch, Mrs. Nateal Campbell,” the family said. “While the details of her passing are still being investigated, we take comfort in knowing she is reunited with our father, her beloved Chuck, and in the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We ask for privacy at this time so that we may honor her and share in our overwhelming grief privately and as a family.”

The Baltimore Ravens also released a statement expressing condolences to Calais Campbell and his family.

“We are incredibly saddened to learn about the passing of Calais Campbell’s mother,” the team said. “We extend our deepest condolences and full support to Calais and his family during this difficult time. We ask that everyone please respect their privacy while they grieve from this heartbreaking loss.”

Investigation continues

What’s next:

Police said the Buckhead home had a history of prior calls for service, including an incident in April. Family members also told investigators the man taken into custody has a history of possible mental health issues.

Ciarre Campbell was scheduled to make his first appearance in Fulton County court Thursday morning but waived the hearing.