In a shocking revelation, Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton disclosed that wide receiver Josh Reynolds was left “pretty shaken up” after being shot twice in Denver last week. The incident, which also left another man injured, occurred in the early hours of Friday morning following a night out at a local strip club.
Reynolds Targeted in Shooting
According to police documents, Reynolds and two companions were leaving Shotgun Willies, a gentlemen’s club in Glendale, Colorado, around 2:45 a.m. when they were followed by multiple vehicles. As Reynolds and one of the men drove away in an SUV, shots rang out, striking the Broncos receiver once in the left arm and once in the back of the head.
Despite the terrifying ordeal, both Reynolds and the other man sustained non-life-threatening injuries. They were treated and released from a Denver-area hospital within hours of the shooting. The third member of their group escaped with only minor injuries from broken glass.
Payton Addresses Team
Coach Sean Payton addressed the incident with the team, emphasizing the support and resources available to Reynolds as he recovers from both the physical and emotional trauma of the shooting. Payton noted that counseling and other assistance would be provided to help the wide receiver through this difficult time.
“Josh Reynolds last week was involved in a very serious incident … I’m kind of like you where I’ve got the initial details, (but) he’s fortunate,” Payton said after Friday’s practice. “I’ve had a chance to talk with him, he was pretty shaken up.”
– Sean Payton, Denver Broncos Head Coach
Suspects Arrested
In a swift response, Denver police apprehended two suspects in connection with the shooting: Burr Charlesworth, 42, and Luis Mendoza, 35. Both men are being held for investigation of attempted first-degree murder and first-degree assault. Documents indicate that Mendoza allegedly followed Reynolds and his companions out of the strip club before the shooting occurred.
Reynolds’ NFL Career
Josh Reynolds, 29, signed a two-year, $9 million contract with the Broncos in April. He has been on injured reserve since fracturing a finger during a Week 5 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders. Prior to his injury, Reynolds had recorded 12 receptions for 183 yards and one touchdown this season.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, the Broncos organization and the NFL community rally around Reynolds, offering support and well-wishes for his full recovery. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can confront players off the field and the importance of prioritizing their safety and well-being.
