Former Raiders linebacker Thomas Howard was one of two individuals killed in a high-speed crash early Monday morning in Oakland, an official from the Alameda County Coroner's office confirmed to NFL Media. Howard was 30.
KRON-TV reported that witnesses informed police that the driver of a gray BMW 750Li sedan, identified as Howard, was seen heading north along Highway 880 at more than 100 mph when he lost control of the vehicle and slammed into the back of a semi truck, according to authorities.
The BMW shot over the center median into the southbound lane before striking both a Chevrolet Monte Carlo and a gray Honda CR-V.
Howard was selected by the Raiders in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft out of the University of Texas at El Paso. After 62 starts with Oakland over five seasons, Howard went on to start 16 games for the Cincinnati Bengals between 2011 and 2012. The Atlanta Falcons signed Howard in October before releasing him earlier this month to make room for Sean Weatherspoon.
Howard's family released the following statement:
"We are grateful for the outpouring of prayers, love and support we have received today. During this difficult time, we ask that you respect the privacy of our family ...
"Please continue to pray for both families."
