New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez has been questioned by police and his home has been searched as part of a homicide investigation in North Attleboro, Mass., according to reports from SI.com and ABC News.
ABC News also reported that Hernandez was uncooperative with authorities during the search, and that two associates of the Patriots tight end tried to leave his home but were detained.
An SI.com source added that Hernandez is not believed to be a suspect, but a vehicle rented in his name has emerged as key evidence in the investigation.
On Monday, a jogger found the body of a 27-year-old Boston man who, according to ABC News, might be an associate of Hernandez. The victim was found less than a mile from Hernandez’s house.
The Sun Chronicle of Attleboro, Mass., reported Tuesday that authorities identified a rented 2013 Chevrolet Suburban with Rhode Island plates in connection with the possible homicide. An SI.com source said Hernandez’s name is tied to that rental vehicle.
According to USAToday.com, the Bristol County District Attorney’s office said, “As the investigation is in its early stages, no further details about this case will be released at this time.”
Bristol County District Attorney Sam Sutter confirmed that a body was found around 5:30 p.m. Monday, and indicated that the investigation would be handed over to Massachusetts state police detectives.
The Patriots have also issued a brief statement.
“I am aware of the reports, but I do not anticipate that we will be commenting publicly during an ongoing police investigation,” team spokesman Stacey James said, via ProFootballTalk.com.
Hernandez, a former fourth-round pick out of Florida, played in just 10 games last season while battling injuries. He signed a five-year contract extension last August.
