Former UCF Knights Quarterback Dillon Gabriel is in critical condition after shooting.
Erik McKinney reported this to On3.
In a startling and terrible turn of events, former UCF Knights quarterback Dillon Gabriel is in critical condition after a gunshot late Friday night. The 23-year-old athlete, who recently transferred to the Oregon Ducks, was allegedly shot in an altercation outside a local bar in Eugene, Oregon.
Details about the event are still coming, but local law enforcement says the shooting occurred at 11 p.m. outside a famous downtown bar. Witnesses described hearing multiple gunshots and seeing Gabriel collapse on the ground. Emergency services were soon alerted to the site, and Gabriel was transported to a neighboring hospital for emergency surgery.
The Eugene Police Department has opened a complete investigation into the shooting. According to preliminary reports, the incident may have started as a quarrel that turned violent. Authorities are currently conducting interviews with witnesses and studying surveillance footage to piece together the circumstances leading up to the shooting. There have been no arrests so far, and authorities are requesting anyone with information to come forward.
Gabriel’s family has been notified and is en route to Eugene. In a brief statement, they expressed deep concern and requested privacy during this difficult time. “We are devastated by the news and praying for Dillon’s recovery,” the statement said. “We ask that everyone respect our family’s privacy as we navigate through this challenging period.”
The Oregon Ducks fan base is hurting from the news. Head coach Dan Lanning spoke to the media this morning, visibly distressed. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Dillon and his family,” Lanning stated. “Dillon is a fighter, and we’re all rooting for him.” We ask that everyone remember him and respect the family’s privacy.
Teammates and friends have used social media to show their support and hope for Gabriel’s recovery. Troy Franklin, an Oregon wide receiver, tweeted, “Praying for you, brother.” Stay strong.” The hashtag #PrayForDillon has begun to trend, with fans and players exchanging messages of optimism and sympathy.
Gabriel, noted for his great talent and leadership on the field, has made a huge contribution to both the UCF and Oregon football programs. His transfer to Oregon was greatly anticipated, and he rapidly established himself as a vital player for the Ducks. His teammates and coaches will definitely miss him very much.
As the inquiry proceeds and the community awaits information on Gabriel’s condition, the attention is on his recuperation and the hope that he will survive this traumatic ordeal. More information will be released when it becomes available, and On3 will continue to closely monitor this developing story.
For the time being, the football community and fans throughout are praying for Dillon Gabriel’s recovery and justice to be served.