Rondale Moore, a 25-year-old wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings, was found dead Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, in his hometown of New Albany.
Authorities said Moore was discovered in a garage at a property in the 1600 block of Ekin Avenue. The New Albany Police Department and the Floyd County Coroner’s Office are conducting a joint investigation.
Police Chief Todd Bailey said initial evidence suggests Moore died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Emergency crews responded to the scene around 5:27 p.m. Moore was later pronounced dead at Baptist Health Floyd shortly after 6 p.m. A forensic autopsy was scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026.
Officials said there is no threat to the public. While early evidence points to a self-inflicted injury, Bailey noted the investigation remains ongoing and no further details will be released at this time. As of Feb. 23, the coroner’s office had completed the autopsy but had not publicly released final results.
Rondale Moore’s Career Overview
Moore rose to prominence as an All-American at Purdue University before becoming a second-round selection in the 2021 NFL Draft.
He spent three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals from 2021 to 2023, followed by brief stints with the Atlanta Falcons and the Minnesota Vikings.
Injuries hampered the latter part of his professional career. Moore missed the entire 2024 and 2025 seasons after suffering consecutive season-ending knee injuries.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell described Moore as a “humble, soft-spoken, and respectful young man.” Former Purdue head coach Jeff Brohm and quarterback Kyler Murray were among those who expressed devastation over his death.
During his NFL career, Moore recorded 135 receptions for 1,201 receiving yards and three touchdowns. He also rushed for 249 yards and one touchdown, showcasing his versatility and speed.
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