Published: July 04, 2009 04:40 pm      

(4:30 p.m.) McNair, 36, shot dead

Former NFL quarterback McNair killed in Tennessee



staff and wire



Former NFL quarterback Steve McNair, who was scheduled to be in Meridian this Thursday to speak at the annual Boys and Girls Club fundraiser dinner, has been shot and killed.



Nashville police spokesman Don Aaron confirmed that police were called to a residence and found McNair and a woman shot to death inside. Aaron said authorities don't yet know the circumstances of the shooting.



"I don't have any answers for you now as to what's happened, who's responsible," he said.



It is not clear what McNair's death will mean for the fundraiser, which was set to be held Thursday at the Frank Cochran Center.



Aaron said police have tentatively identified the woman but did not release her name.



McNair played 13 seasons in the NFL and led the Titans within a yard of forcing overtime in the 2000 Super Bowl. The former third overall draft pick also played for the Baltimore Ravens before retiring after the 2007 season.



"He was one of the finest players to play for our organization and one of the most beloved players by our fans," Titans owner Bud Adams said in a statement. "He played with unquestioned heart and leadership and led us to places that we had never reached, including our only Super Bowl."



The Associated Press.