NFL’s Zurlon Tipton Dead After Accidental Shooting

ROSEVILLE, Mich. (CN) — Medical examiners began the autopsy Wednesday of Zurlon Tipton after former Indianapolis Colts running back accidently shot and killed himself.

Fox 2 reported that Tipton, 26, had been dropping his Jeep off for service Tuesday at a local car dealership when he tried to lift a duffle bag out of the trunk of his vehicle.

The bag reportedly contained two handguns, one of which went off and shot Tipton in the stomach.

Fox 2 said Tipton was alert immediately following the shooting but died during surgery at St. John Hospital and Medical Center in Detroit.

"[It's like] he will be pulling up any minute," Tipton's mother Cortrice Boone said, according to Fox 2. "You know, it don't seem real."

Tipton had a valid concealed-pistol license, but there are no details as to why he was carrying two guns in his bag.

The Colts released Tipton after two seasons in December 2015. In 16 games, Tipton gained 38 yards on 15 carries.

Colts owner Jim Irsay sent out a condolence message via Twitter. "Rest in peace, Zurlon. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Tipton family."

A native of Sterling Heights, Mich., Tipton played college ball at Central Michigan University. There in 2012 he scored 19 touchdowns and rushed for more than 1,500 yards.

CMU called Tipton's death "shocking and tragic."

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