Aaron Hernandez is no longer a member of the New England Patriots. Reports surfaced Wednesday that the tight end had been arrested by two police offers from his home , though the charges have yet to be released.
In response to the news, the Patriots released a statement on the team’s website which announced their decision to let the 23-year-old go.
“A young man was murdered last week and we extend our sympathies to the family and friends who mourn his loss,” the Patriots said in their statement. “Words cannot express the disappointment we feel knowing that one of our players was arrested as a result of this investigation.”
The team went on to explain that the decision to release Hernandez was the “right thing to do” at this time based on the current investigation. The investigation comes in connection with the recent murder of 27-year-old Odin Lloyd, who’s body was found less than a mile from the home of Aaron Hernandez less than a week ago.
“We realize that law enforcement investigations into this matter are ongoing,” the Patriots said. “We support their efforts and respect the process. At this time, we believe this transaction is simply the right thing to do.”
The focus now returns to the investigation, but it’s still unknown what he’s being charged with. He’s expected to be arraigned Wednesday afternoon in Attleboro District Court.
Since his arrest, the Massachusetts State Police released a statement via Twitter about the charges.
We are not releasing the charge against Hernandez until it is presented to the court. Again, he will be arraigned in Attleboro Court today
— MASS STATE POLICE (@MassStatePolice) June 26, 2013
Hernandez wasn’t an original suspect for the murder, but he’s been linked to the devastating incident through his girlfriend’s sister, who was dating Odin Lloyd.
Are you surprised that the New England Patriots decided to release Aaron Hernandez after his arrest on Wednesday morning?