Jeff Gladney, a cornerback for the Arizona Cardinals, died from a car crash early Monday morning. He was 25 years old.
According to multiple reports, Gladney died with his girlfriend, Mercedes Palacios, 26.
According to Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Gladney‘s agent, Brian Overstreet, confirmed the news of his death as a result of a fatal car accident. However, the details surrounding his death were not immediately known.
“We are asking prayers,” Overstreet said. “for the family and privacy at this most difficult time.”
The publication reports the fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred around 2:30 a.m. in the westbound service lanes of Woodall Rogers Freeway at Allen Street in Dallas, Texas.
When Deputies arrived at the accident location, they discovered a white vehicle overturned in a grassy area. Dallas Fire-Rescue confirmed two people were dead, a man and a woman.
Initial investigations indicate that Gladney’s white vehicle allegedly sped and clipped the second vehicle from behind. Gladney reportedly lost control and hit the pier beam of the Woodall Rogers Freeway. Two people occupied the second vehicle and they were not injured.
The NFL family mourns the tragic loss of Jeff Gladney and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/FgN5T62q3I
— NFL (@NFL) May 30, 2022
Palacio’s friends confirm her passing in postings on social media and send condolences to her family and friends.
One Instagram user, @nayyswavey, shared a collage video of photos of herself and Palacios. She revealed that Palacios was the “sweetest soul” and that the two crossed paths at Tarleton State University during their freshman year.
“Man I can’t even believe I’m typing this shit right now.. I’ve been in shambles ever since I got the news. Mercedes was my MF wifey. This post doesn’t even highlight all of the great ass memories that we had,” Nay said. “I don’t even know what to type right now. I just can’t believe that this is real. Mercedes was the sweetest soul who was always down for a good time. I’m so grateful to have known you and I thank God that we crossed paths at Tarleton freshman year. You will always be in my heart and I will never forget you. May you rest in the Lord. I love you 4L wifey”
Closer Collections, a brand located in Dallas, shared its condolences for the Palacios, confirming that she was Gladney’s girlfriend and had a working relationship with the company.
“We are deeply saddened to hear the awful news that @cedespalacios passed away this weekend in a car accident,” the post read. “While the news will focus on Mercedes Boyfriend NFL Star Jeff Gladney, we want to bring focus to another life that was lost way too soon. We had the pleasure of meeting Mercedes several years ago and her fun loving attitude and caring nature stood out in a crowd. It’s hard to believe that she is gone, may she Rest In Peace.”
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Texas Christian University (TCU), where Gladney was a standout athlete as a cornerback, released a statement after the news of his passing, sharing he frequently came back to his alma mater and he will be missed.
“Our TCU Athletics family and especially our football program, was very devastated to learn of the passing of Jeff Gladney. After earning his degree and continuing his playing career in the NFL, Jeff maintained his close ties to TCU,” the statement read. “He loved everything about his alma mater. He was a frequent visitor to campus and was at our spring practices and spring game this year, proudly joined by his young son. He will be missed by our entire community. Our thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences to go Jeff’s family, friends and TCU teammates.”
Saddened by the tragic loss of Jeff Gladney. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/FvilWRtNAu
— TCU Football (@TCUFootball) May 30, 2022
The Arizona Cardinals released a statement on its Twitter account shortly after confirming the news of Gladney’s death.
“We are devasted to learn of Jeff Gladney’s passing,” the statement read. “Our hearts go out to his family, friends and all who are mourning this tremendous loss.”
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) May 30, 2022
Gladney’s former team the Minnesota Vikings also released a statement on his passing, sending their thoughts and prayers to Gladney’s family and the Cardinals organization.
“We are saddened by the tragic death of former Viking Jeff Gladney,” the statement read. “Our hearts go out to his family and friends, as well as the Arizona Cardinals organization and Jeff’s current and former teammates and coaches who are mourning his life lost much too soon.”
We are saddened by the tragic death of former Viking Jeff Gladney. Our hearts go out to his family and friends, as well as the Arizona Cardinals organization and Jeff’s current and former teammates and coaches who are mourning his life lost much too soon. pic.twitter.com/5bdVCXT6Gv
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) May 30, 2022
The Minnesota Vikings drafted Gladney with the No. 31 overall pick in 2020. Gladney was later released from the team after indicting on a felony assault charge.
