University of Kentucky football player Nic Smith was found dead on campus, the school announced on Monday, June 8.
School spokesman Jay Blanton said the University of Kentucky Police Department received a call around 10 a.m. on Monday reporting that a student had been found dead in a residence hall. Smith’s death was announced later in the day. He was 20 years old.
Police are working with the Lexington-Fayette County Coroner to determine a cause of death. An initial investigation did not indicate that foul play was involved.
“Today our hearts are broken,” Kentucky head football coach Will Stein said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Nic’s family, friends, teammates and everyone who knew and loved him. This is a tremendous loss for our program and university community. We will continue to support one another and honor his memory.”
The university said in a separate statement, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved teammate Nic Smith. We extend our thoughts and prayers to Nic’s family, friends and the members of our program.”
Smith’s mother, Genedra Rountree, confirmed her son’s death in a post via Facebook on Tuesday, June 9.
“I post this to let those who knew my son and loved him of the passing of our gentle giant,” she wrote. “I know there are more people that I can call or think who loved and cared about my son and was rooting for him.”
Rountree added, “I just want to peacefully lay my baby’s body to rest. Hold your children tighter kiss them tell them you love them check on them everyday. Thank you for those who have reached out who heard the news thank you for your support and your prayers. As arrangements are being made I will gracefully post the information of his services. Thank you all and God bless.”
Smith’s mother noted that any fundraisers seen online in her late son’s name were not legitimate.
“If there is any type of GoFundMe or anything posted on him do know I have nothing to do with that,” Rountree said. “I am not posting any GoFundMe or anything of that nature.”
Nearly two months before his death, Smith mourned the loss of his younger sister, Keitlynn, who he called his “twin.”
“Imma always be your big brother looking out for you, and taking care of you,” he shared via Instagram on April 17. “Imma keep talking to you like you never left bby girl😢. My lil sister was a [role] in my life in ways I couldn’t explain. While you rest I’ll be down here making you proud.”
Smith, a defensive lineman who redshirted during his freshman season, was also majoring in community leadership and development at the University of Kentucky.
