Idaho State University’s assistant coach charged with first degree murder
A former player himself, the coach now awaits extradition to Arizona where the tragic shooting death of a 25 year old young man took place.
In a shocking turn of events, the Bengals’ coach was arrested in connection with a brutal crime which occurred five years ago.
Idaho State University’s Davonte’ Neal charged with first degree murder
According to reports, Idaho State have placed Davonte’ Neal on administrative leave after the defensive backs coach was recently arrested and charged with first degree murder. It is also understood that the school has initiated the process of terminating his contract. Neal is alleged to have been involved in an incident for which he was arrested in Arizona back in 2017. In addition to the murder charge, Neal is also facing three other felonies including, but not limited to one count of drive by shooting which is a class two felony. As per reports, the victim of the crime was 25 year old Bryan Burns who was found dead at the scene. Neal was arrested without any incident and is currently awaiting extradition back to Arizona.
ISU’s staff are shocked by Davonte’ Neal’s situation
Speaking on the sad and unfortunate situation, ISU athletic director Pauline Thiros was in disbelief. “I have been in constant contact with (ISU head coach Charlie Ragle) who has known Davonte’ for many years and never had any knowledge or suspicion of a possible crime of any kind,” Thiros said. “The news of Davonte’ Neal’s arrest and charges in Arizona was a great shock. Going forward, we will cooperate in every way possible, safeguard our program and culture, support each other and our students, and allow the legal process to work. The news is devastating and we hope for resolution for all involved.”
Incidentally, the school also disclosed that it had in fact performed a background check before hiring Neal, however, the result of said check “came back clean.” As for Neal himself who was a former player for the University of Notre Dame before finishing his playing days at Arizona, it is understood that he only joined the Bengals’ coaching staff in January. The aforementioned Ragle was actually Neal’s coach at Arizona and was central in facilitating his move to the staff of ISU’s football team. Prior to the move Neal had been coaching as a high school assistant in Gilbert, Arizona.