NFL Star Aaron Hernandez Charged With Murder

Aaron Hernandez

Area where the body was found

American football player Aaron Hernandez has been charged with murder over the death of another player whose body was found near his home.

Hernandez, 23, was arrested on Wednesday morning at his sprawling home in North Attleborough, Massachusetts.

 

He is accused of murdering Odin Lloyd, a 27-year-old semi-professional player for the Boston Bandits.

Hernandez also faces several firearms violations. He was ordered to be held without bail.
Mr Lloyd's body was found on June 17 in an industrial park a mile from Hernandez's house.
Authorities said he had been shot multiple times in the back and chest.

The victim, Odin Lloyd

Mr Lloyd's relatives said he had been dating the sister of Hernandez's fiancee, adding the two men were friends and both had been out together on the night Mr Lloyd died.

In court on Wednesday, prosecutors said the killing arose from a dispute at a Boston nightclub on June 14.

They said Mr Lloyd was aware Hernandez was upset with him after being picked up by the NFL star in the early hours of June 17.

Media camped out in front of Hernandez's home

Prosecutors said Mr Lloyd sent a text to his sister saying: "Did you see who I am with."

When his sister asked who, Mr Lloyd responded: "NFL."

Within minutes of the text, people working overnight at the industrial park reported hearing gunshots, authorities said.

State police searched Hernandez's home several times in the days before his arrest.

The New England Patriots issued a statement shortly after Hernandez, who joined them from the University of Florida in 2010, was arrested.

"We realise that law enforcement investigations into this matter are ongoing. We support their efforts and respect the process," they said.

"At this time, we believe this transaction is simply the right thing to do."

Last summer, the Patriots gave Hernandez a five-year contract worth $40m.

Update Later...