It’s already been a tough week for the 49ers, falling just short of winning their sixth Super Bowl title.
But any loss pales in comparison to a real-life tragedy affecting the team.
Hours after the Super Bowl ended Monday morning, the aunt and uncle of 49ers tight end Delanie Walker, Alice and Bryan Young, had pulled to the shoulder of I-10 in St. Charles Parish just outside of New Orleans. Their 2012 Nissan Altima was struck by a speeding 2002 Mercedes Benz C230.
Following the impact at around 5:30 AM, both cars caught fire. The suspect who caused the wreck was able to escape with minor injuries, but when the fire was extinguished, the Youngs were discovered in their vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene.
26-year old Nechole Thomas, of Houston was arrested on two counts of vehicular homicide, DWI and reckless operation of a vehicle, authorities said.
Walker used Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to report the sad news.
He also posted two photos of himself with his Aunt and Uncle.
Teammates and owner Jed York posted their condolences on Twitter:
Walker just completed his seventh season with the 49ers. He had three receptions for 48 yards in Super Bowl XLVII, won by the Ravens, 34-31.
