NM State Player Killed

[Brandon]

EDIT: (I just realized that this was posted already... So, if you've already seen it, sorry)

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/foot...t.ap/index.html

Leaupepe dead at 21

N.M. State linebacker killed in drive-by shooting

LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) -- New Mexico State linebacker Shana Leaupepe, who was set to be a starter this season, was killed in a drive-by shooting.

Leaupepe, 21, died Friday in Long Beach, Calif., coach Hal Mumme said Saturday. Leaupepe was visiting family when he was killed.

"Shana was an outstanding young man, and we are shocked that this has happened," Mumme said in a statement. "Shana was a wonderful friend and teammate, and our hearts go out to his family. We've lost a special young man whose time at New Mexico State left a lasting mark on our coaches, players and staff."

Leaupepe led West Los Angeles College with 56 tackles in 2004, helping his team to a conference championship. In his two years at the college, he tallied more than 100 tackles and was named an all-Conference selection twice. He transferred to New Mexico State in 2005 and redshirted that season.

Mumme said Leaupepe will be buried in American Samoa.

Edited July 10, 2006 by Brandon