Patriots’ Aaron Hernandez questioned in murder case

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Wednesday, June 19, 2013

John Rooke, GoLocalWorcester Sports Editor

The New England Patriots' troubles at tight end may have just become more serious than originally thought.

23-year-old TE Aaron Hernandez had police surround his North Attleboro, MA home late Tuesday afternoon and evening, searching his property in connection with the death of a 27-year-old Boston man found nearby. A jogger found the body of Odin Lloyd, a linebacker for the semi-pro Boston Bandits, in an industrial park Monday...less than a mile from Hernandez's home.

SI.com has reported that police questioned Hernandez beginning Monday evening, searched his home Tuesday night for more than two hours and left the house with a cardboard box. Hernandez is not believed to be a suspect in the apparent homicide, but is tied to the case by a vehicle rented in his name with Rhode Island plates found near the scene, according to the Attleboro Sun Chronicle. Police returned to the home Wednesday morning. Numerous web reports have said Hernandez was not cooperating with local police, but a North Attleboro detective did tell the Boston Herald "He's there. He's fine."

Athletes First, Hernandez's agency, declined to comment when contacted by SI.com. Hernandez has consulted with a lawyer, who also has not yet commented. Patriots' spokesman Stacey James did say “I am aware of the reports, but I do not anticipate that we will be commenting publicly during an ongoing police investigation."

Hernandez also has not yet commented on the investigation. Sports Illustrated reported Wednesday afternoon he was recently sued for shooting a man in the face, causing the loss of an eye. The lawsuit was dropped, but may be pursued again. WBZ in Boston reported Wednesday afternoon police found a gun in a wooded area alongside a road near his home. It was also learned the sister of Hernandez's girlfriend is believed to have dated Odin Lloyd.

Hernandez signed a five-year, $40 million contract extension with the team last year. He caught 51 passes and scored five touchdowns in an injury-shortened season a year ago, and reached the Pro Bowl in his 2nd season as a pro. Hernandez originally was selected in the 4th round of the 2010 draft out of the University of Florida. His draft stock reportedly fell due to multiple off-field issues at the time.