Former New England Patriots wide receiver David Patten was killed in a motorcycle crash Thursday in South Carolina.
He was 47.
According to The State newspaper, officials with the South Carolina Highway Patrol said around 9:30 p.m. in Richland County, Patten's motorcycle crossed the median and struck a sedan, which then sideswiped a van.
Patten played in the NFL for 12 seasons, most notably catching Tom Brady's first postseason touchdown in Super Bowl 36 in a Patriots win over the St. Louis Rams.
"I am heartbroken by the news of David's passing," said Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft, in a statement. "He was a devout Christian who followed his passion following his football career and founded his own ministry. David transitioned from an undersized and understated wide receiver to a powerful and passionate preacher. In New England, he will always be remembered as a three-time Super Bowl Champion."
According to ESPN, Patten played with the Patriots from 2001-2004 and retired in 2010 during the Patriots training camp.
