Per USA Today, former Dallas Cowboys and Chicago Bears running back Marion Barber died from heat stroke. This comes from official word of the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office in McKinney, Texas on Monday.
The body of Barber was initially found on June 1st in his apartment as police performed a welfare check. According to the autopsy report, a bathtub faucet in Barber’s apartment was running when police arrived, and the unit’s thermostat was set to 91 degrees with the heat set to “on.” Various exercise equipment was also found within the home.
“Mr. Barber was known to exercise in sauna-like conditions,” the coroner noted in his report. His death has since been ruled an accident.
Unfortunately, it was stated in the incident report that Barber’s family members had not heard from him in six days prior to day his body was discovered. He was also “known to have a history of medical problems and mental health concerns.”
A fourth-round pick out of Minnesota in 2005, Marion Barber played seven years in the NFL. Most known for his days with the Dallas Cowboys, where he played for his first six years, he spent his final year with the Chicago Bears. He accumulated 4,780 rushing yards, 59 total touchdowns, and a 4.1 yards per carry average in his career.
Barber’s best year came in 2007, where he rushed for 975 yards and ten touchdowns. The year’s performance earned him a Pro Bowl berth, as well as a chance to start for the Cowboys in the following years. Many family members of his also played for the NFL. Brothers Dominique and Thomas, cousin Peyton, and father Marion, Jr. all saw time as NFL players at some point.
We extend our condolences and well-wishes to the Barber family in this time of grieving.