The family of Atlanta-native Edwin Jackson is showing appreciation for the outpouring of support they've received since the Indianapolis Colts player was killed by a drunk driver on Sunday.
"We were blessed to have had an amazing son who lived a life that extended respect, love and genuine concerns to everyone," the statement reads. "He showed compassion for his community and strived to be an example to kids who looked up to him."
Jackson lost his life Sunday morning around 4 a.m. when a westbound vehicle struck him and another man, 54-year-old Jeffrey Monroe, as they stood outside a truck in the emergency lane of I-70 in Indiana.
Police believe Monroe had stopped to help Jackson who had become ill that morning.
"As we grieve our loss, we are aware that the family of Mr. Jeffrey Monroe also grieves the loss of their loved one," the statement said. "We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to them during this time."
Since those tragic events, many in both Indianapolis and Georgia have shared an outpouring of support with the family.
"We thank the City of Indianapolis for embracing Edwin and treating him as one of their own," their statement read. "We also thank Mr. Irsay and the entire Colts organization for allowing Edwin to fulfill his dream of playing the game that he worked so hard for and loved immensely."
They also thanked the Westlake High School and Georgia Southern Communities who supported their son.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking those wishing to honor Jackson to contribute to the Edwin Jackson 53 Foundation at: www.EdwinJackson53.com.
Visitation will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Big Bethel AME. The funeral will be at 11 a.m. on Monday.
