An entire community of Hazel Green, Alabama is mourning the death of high school football star Julian Jones after an apparent suicide.
According to AL.com’s news partner, WHNT News 19, the Madison County Coroner confirmed the cause of Jones’ death this morning to be suicide.
Jones, the son of former Alabama A&M coach Anthony Jones, was a highly sought after defensive lineman with offers from Mississippi State and South Carolina. The 6-foot-5, 230-pound Jones also played tight end for the Trojans.
Efforts by AL.com to reach Hazel Green coach Matt Putnam were unsuccessful.
Alabama A&M released the following statement:
“The Alabama A&M University family is saddened to learn of the passing of Coach Anthony Jones’ son, Julian Jones. Losing a loved one is always difficult, but the loss of a child is extremely difficult. As Coach Jones spent a decade at the University, Alabama A&M University still embraces the Jones Family as members of our AAMU Family. We extend condolences to Coach Jones and his family and ask all persons to keep the Jones Family in their prayers at this most difficult period.”The Madison County School system released a statement late Monday night:
“A link in the Madison County School family was broken with the passing of Hazel Green High School football player, Julian Jones. Julian, a 16 year old junior, passed away on Monday. Counselors will be available for the students.
This is a very sad. No parent should have to bury their child and it makes you wonder what was going on with the young man for him to take his own life. This young man is gone way before his time and my prayers and sympathy are with his family and community.