Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell has been named as one of the 10 people injured in a nightclub shooting in Sanford, Florida, Saturday night.
In a statement released Sunday, via Yahoo Sports, the Texans confirmed Dell's involvement, stating: "We have been made aware that Tank Dell was a victim of a shooting in Sanford, Fla. last night.
"He sustained a minor wound but has been released from the hospital and he is in good spirits."
The team assured fans that they are in contact with Dell and his family, and asked that their privacy be respected during this time.
According to Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 in Houston, Dell was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire of the mass shooting. He was not involved in the altercation that led to the violence.
Writing on X, Wilson stated: "#Texans wide receiver Tank Dell was shot Saturday night, sustaining minor wounds in Florida as a victim and innocent bystander in a mass shooting at a nightclub.
"Has already been released from hospital. Expected to make full recovery. Dell was not involved in the altercation, was caught in the cross-fire."
The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office has revealed that a 16-year-old suspect has been arrested in connection with the shooting and booked into a juvenile detention center.
Speaking to ClickOrlando, authorities say the suspect faces multiple charges, including attempted homicide and possession of a firearm by a minor.
Additionally, police say that the shooting is believed to have stemmed from an altercation that escalated outside the Cabana Live nightclub.
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Witnesses described a scene of terror and confusion as gunshots rang out, with many scrambling for safety. Neisha Foster recounted her experience, stating: "I heard, 'Pow, pow, pow!' I was so frightened I started looking around, everybody just roaming around scattering."
Despite the chaos, a security guard managed to disarm the alleged shooter shortly after the incident began, as per an arrest report from the Seminole County Sheriff's Office.
The Cabana Live nightclub addressed the incident on social media, acknowledging the events that transpired outside their establishment and confirming cooperation with authorities in the investigation.
The nightclub said in a statement shared to Facebook:
"As most of you have heard, there was an incident outside our establishment last night. We are cooperating with the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office and praying for all those involved. We reserved our venue out for a private event and we are still learning as the investigation continues what was the cause of this isolated incident.
"Our Cabana Live family is 100% safe and appreciate all the prayers and concerns. We are open our normal business hours."
Dell, 24 had been enjoying a breakout season with the Texans in 2023 before suffering a fractured fibula that prematurely ended his season.
With 41 catches for 709 yards and seven touchdowns in 11 games, Dell's performance had garnered attention prior to his injury. It remains to be seen whether this latest setback will affect his recovery process.
We wish all the victims the very best in their respective recoveries.
