The Saskatchewan Roughriders are mourning the loss of running back Joe McKnight, who was fatally shot Thursday in Louisiana.
“It is with deep sorrow that we have learned of the devastating news of the loss of Saskatchewan Roughriders player Joe McKnight,” the team said in a statement.
“We are shocked to hear the news of Joe’s sudden passing,” said Riders general manager and head coach Chris Jones.
“We send our deepest sympathies to Joe’s family, friends, and all those impacted by this tragedy.”
Police in Louisiana say McKnight, 28, was standing outside his car when he was shot following an argument with another motorist at an intersection in Terrytown, a suburb of New Orleans. A suspect, 54-year-old Ronald Gasser, is in custody and being questioned.
“We are saddened to hear of the tragic loss of Joe McKnight,” said Riders president and CEO Craig Reynolds.
“Losing a member of our Rider family this way is an unthinkable occurrence. Our thoughts and prayers are with Joe’s family, teammates and coaches.”
McKnight was signed to Saskatchewan's practice roster on Sept. 26, and he ran for 150 yards in his first CFL start on Oct. 15 as the Roughriders beat Toronto 29-11. He finished the 2016 season with 228 rushing yards and 80 receiving yards over five games with Edmonton and Saskatchewan.
With files from The Associated Press and The Canadian Press
