Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Williams died earlier this year, and officials have now confirmed the cause of death.
Williams died on Sept. 12 while in intensive care at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa, Fla. The 36-year-old’s agent said Williams had been hospitalized after he sustained injuries in a serious accident on a construction site.
The accident took place nearly a month prior on Aug. 18, which led to some confusion about the circumstances surrounding Williams’ death. It was later revealed that the injuries were not believed to be life-threatening at first. Williams’ mother said her son began having trouble walking a few days later and called 911.
Williams was admitted to the hospital on Aug. 22 and underwent spinal surgery. A test of the spinal fluid showed that he had a staph infection. Williams had also been diagnosed with brain lesions.
According to Garrett Phillips of WFLA, the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner Department released the official cause of death for Williams this week. The report states that Williams died from “bacterial sepsis with cerebral abscesses and necrotizing lobar pneumonia due to multiple dental caries and retained tooth roots.” Medical officials also listed arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease as a contributing factor.
In simpler terms, Williams died from various complications due to infections.
Members of Williams family had some concerns about the circumstances surrounding Williams’ death and reached out to authorities, who reportedly launched an investigation. Police have not announced any findings or whether they are still investigating.
Williams had a standout rookie campaign for the Buccaneers. He had 65 catches for 964 yards and 11 touchdowns during the 2010 season. He finished second in AP Offensive Rookie of the Year voting.
Williams played five seasons in the NFL. He totaled 223 catches for 3,089 yards and 26 touchdowns for his career.
