By Carolyn Coene
The brother of longtime NFL star Calais Campbell has been charged with murder. Authorities found their 71-year-old mother dead during a wellness check at her Georgia home, according to jail records.
Authorities claim Ciarre Campbell, 41, was taken into Fulton County Jail early Wednesday. He faces charges of murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm or knife.
The arrest occurred just hours after the Campbell family announced the death of their mother, Nateal Campbell, in a statement.
The statement read: "We are devastated to share that the Campbell Family has lost its matriarch, Mrs. Nateal Campbell," the family said. "While the details of her passing are still being investigated, we take comfort in knowing she is reunited with our father, her beloved Chuck, and in the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We ask for privacy at this time so that we may honor her and share in our overwhelming grief privately and as a family."
According to Atlanta television station WSB-TV, police responded to a welfare check requested by a concerned family member. Officers found 71-year-old Nateal Campbell deceased inside the home.
Police said they have previously responded to calls at the same location. Lt. Christapher Butler told WSB-TV there had been a reported arson incident at the home back in April.
"A brief look into the history does show some calls back in April dealing with this location, a possible arson incident," Butler said. "There have been some indications of possible some mental health issues with an individual."
Calais Campbell, 39, is preparing for his 19th season in the NFL. Drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft, he has emerged as one of the best defensive linemen in his era, earning All-Pro honors, six Pro Bowl selections, and a place on the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team. In 2019, he was named the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year.
The Cardinals released a statement expressing condolences for Campbell and his family.
"At this time of unfathomable tragedy, our hearts are with Calais Campbell and his family," the team said. "We hope they find strength and comfort in the love, prayers, and support that surround them now and in the days ahead."
After spending the 2025 season with the Cardinals, Campbell signed with the Baltimore Ravens in May for his second stint with the team.
The investigation into Nateal Campbell's death remains ongoing.