Victor Cruz was at a Manhattan nightclub early Tuesday morning when gunfire erupted and one man was killed, but a Giants spokesman told the New York Daily News the wide receiver was "not involved and not harmed" in the incident.
Cruz's agent, Jack Huntington, confirmed to the Daily News that his client was at the nightclub "but not near the incident." TMZ.com first reported the story Tuesday.
Other Giants and NFL players, as well as some NBA players, were at the club at the time of the shooting, but none was involved, according to reports. Those players include defensive end Chris Canty, wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, safety Antrel Rolle and cornerback Aaron Ross of the Giants, along with Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman Branden Albert and Philadelphia Eagles safety Jarrad Page, a person with knowledge of the investigation told The New York Times.
When asked Wednesday about the incident involving some of his players, Giants coach Tom Coughlin said he was only aware of Cruz's presence at the club, but he was thankful the receiver was safe.
"I would speak to him as a parent would speak to their son," Coughlin said of Cruz. "What happens good at 2:30, 3 in the morning, I've never been able to figure that one out. Beyond that is between he and I."
Peter Schaffer, the agent for Nicks, vehemently denied that his client was at the club. He told the Times that Nicks was at home with his daughter Monday night.
Cruz, a second-year pro, has 40 receptions for 672 yards and four touchdowns this season.