Memorial Fund Launched for Marshawn Kneeland’s Pregnant Girlfriend
In a tragic turn of events, the Dallas Cowboys community is mourning the loss of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who passed away at the age of 24 due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His death occurred shortly after he scored his first NFL touchdown on November 3. During a recent news conference, Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed that Kneeland’s girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, is expecting a child. To support her and the unborn baby, a Marshawn Kneeland Memorial Fund has been established by his family and management team.
Details of the Incident
The incident leading to Kneeland’s death unfolded on the evening of November 8, following a police chase in Frisco, Texas. Shortly after 10:30 p.m., troopers attempted to stop Kneeland for a traffic violation on the Dallas North Tollway. He refused to comply, prompting a pursuit that ultimately concluded with his vehicle being abandoned and found damaged.
At approximately 11:30 p.m., Plano police responded to a welfare check at Kneeland’s apartment but found no one home. Mancera reported to authorities that Kneeland was armed and had a history of mental illness. Tragically, he had already sent a goodbye text to his family as police continued to search for him. Kneeland was discovered around 1:30 a.m., having succumbed to his injuries.
Support for Mancera
Catalina Mancera, who had been dating Kneeland since their time at Western Michigan University, recently launched SZN Stitches, a custom gameday apparel brand. Many of her designs featured Kneeland’s name and likeness. She is one of the last people he communicated with before his passing.
Tributes from the Cowboys
The Cowboys organization plans to honor Kneeland’s memory through various means. Players will sport helmet decals as a tribute during games, alongside special T-shirts for their next two matchups—one against the Las Vegas Raiders and the other on November 23 against the Philadelphia Eagles. Additionally, a moment of silence and a video tribute will be held at the next home game, with Kneeland’s family and Mancera in attendance.
How to Support
Fans wishing to assist Catalina and remember Marshawn Kneeland can contribute to the Marshawn Kneeland Memorial Fund. Donations can be made through a dedicated link. Mental health resources are also available for those in need:
- Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line: 972-525-8181 or visit HereForTexas.com
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 800-273-8255 for 24-hour crisis support
- Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741 for 24-hour support
- North Texas Behavioral Health Authority: 866-260-8000 for a 24-hour crisis hotline
- Suicide and Crisis Center of North Texas: 214-828-1000 or 800-273-8255
This tragic event underscores the importance of mental health awareness and support within communities. The Cowboys, along with the rest of the NFL community, stand united in honoring Marshawn Kneeland and supporting his loved ones during this challenging time.
