Arthur Jones was a defensive tackle for the Baltimore Ravens and other NFL teams. As he was only 39, word of his death on October 3 caught a lot of sports fans by surprise.
How did Jones' die? His formal cause of death has not been released, but some details are trickling out about the circumstances.
"Medical personnel were dispatched to Jones’ home in Central New York’s Onondaga County around 11 a.m. in response to a medical emergency, according to a police spokesperson," the Baltimore Banner reported. "Jones had a preexisting medical condition, the spokesperson said, and he was pronounced dead at his home."
The Baltimore Banner noted that Jones was "a member of the franchise’s Super Bowl XLVII-winning squad," referring to the Ravens. According to the news site, Jones was also the brother of UFC heavyweight champion Jon “Bones” Jones.
Syracuse.com offered another revealing detail. 911 dispatches reviewed by that site revealed that first responders were alerted "after his defibrillator went off," and found Jones deceased at home. Both "fire and ambulance crews" responded, Syracuse.com reported, adding that Jones had a pre-existing heart condition.
"There were no signs of foul play," the Banner reported.
Jones' wife previously discussed his love for family (which included wife Camille and two sons) in the media.
"I see them playing and wrestling and kissing and singing," Camille, Jones' wife, said in a previous phone interview with IndyStar. "I'm so proud because I see another generation coming up the right way."
The Baltimore Ravens released a statement from Head Coach John Harbaugh after Jones' untimely death.
"Art was truly a remarkable person. A dedicated teammate, a relentless worker, and someone any coach would be proud to lead," Harbaugh said.
"My heart is heavy today after the loss of Art Jones," he added. The coach praised Jones for his "love for life" and "generous spirit."
He had a "radiant smile" that "left a lasting impression" on people he encountered, according to Harbaugh's statement, which was posted to X by the team. "My deepest sympathies and prayers are with Art's family. May his legacy of kindness live on, and may he rest in peace," the statement said.
