Chargers mourn Tomlinson’s loss

Friday, Feb 23, 2007
By Casey Pearce, Chargers.com

• Statement from LaDainian Tomlinson

The Chargers have confirmed that Oliver Tomlinson, the father of running back LaDainian Tomlinson, was killed in a one-vehicle automobile accident near Waco, Texas Friday afternoon.  Ronald McClain, LaDainian's older brother who was the driver in the crash, was taken to the hospital and later passed away.   

“The entire Chargers Family is extremely saddened by this tragic news,” President Dean Spanos said.  “Our thoughts and prayers are with L.T. and his entire family.”   

According to a report in the Waco Tribune, McClain lost control of his truck after a tire blew out while the vehicle was traveling at approximately 55 miles per hour.  The truck flipped and was resting on its side when authorities arrived.  The 71-year-old Oliver Tomlinson was a passenger.  Both the elder Tomlinson and McClain were both ejected from the vehicle.   

Authorities have been in contact with the NFL’s MVP and L.T. is believed to be en route to Texas to be with his family.  

“We extend our support to LaDainian’s family and will do anything that we can to help them through this difficult period,” Spanos said.  “At the same time, we also respect the family’s privacy at such a sensitive time.”