Former Arizona Cardinals tight end Todd Heap accidentally struck and killed his 3-year-old daughter while moving his truck in the driveway of the family’s Mesa, Arizona, home late Friday afternoon, the Arizona Republic reported.
The young daughter of the two-time Pro Bowler was transported to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead. She was the youngest of five children Heap has with his wife, Ashley.
Police say that there were no signs that Heap was impaired in any way, but an investigation is ongoing.
The Arizona Cardinals released a statement about the tragedy, writing: “Our hearts go out to Todd, Ashley and the Heap family. It is a grief that is beyond words and one which no family should ever experience. Hopefully the prayers, love and support of their incredible group of friends and family provide them comfort that along with their strong faith will lead them through this unspeakably difficult time.”
Heap played for Arizona State University before being picked up by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the 2001 NFL Draft. As the team’s tight end for 10 years, he became the franchise’s all-time leader in touchdown catches, the second all-time in reception and yards, and named NFL Alumni Tight End of the Year in 2006.
After being released by the Ravens in 2011, he played for the Arizona Cardinals for two years.
Heap retired from