BREAKING: Suspect Arrested in Michigan for Fatal Shooting of Former Clemson Football Star in North Carolina
A 20-year-old man has been arrested in Michigan and charged with first-degree murder in connection with last month’s fatal shooting of former Clemson wide receiver Diondre Overton, North Carolina authorities reported on Tuesday.
According to a news release from the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office, Jeremiah Diago Blanks is suspected of killing Overton during a gathering in Greensboro, the former player’s hometown.
Sheriff Danny H. Rogers explained that detectives, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, traveled to Michigan to apprehend Blanks. No further information has been released regarding Blanks or a possible motive. He is currently being held at the Oakland County Jail in Pontiac, Michigan, awaiting extradition to North Carolina.
Overton, 26, was found on the morning of September 7 after deputies responded to a call about a loud party. He was given medical attention but passed away at the scene.
Overton played for Clemson from 2016 to 2019, contributing to the Tigers’ national championship wins in 2016 and 2018. He recorded 52 receptions, 777 yards, and seven touchdowns during his time with the team.
News of Overton’s death surfaced just hours before Clemson’s 66-20 victory over Appalachian State. Head coach Dabo Swinney honored Overton by visiting his plaque before the game, describing him as one of the most kind-hearted and spirited players to come through the program, as well as a great teammate.