16-year-old Allen High football player fatally shot at House Party

Late Saturday, an Allen High School football player, 16 years old, was fatally shot at a Plano home. The victim was identified Marquel Ellis Jr., a sophomore by police and the school district.

16-year-old Allen High football player fatally shot at House Party

According to police, several people were kicked out of a party there right before someone fired into the house and stroke that boy. The boy died at an area hospital due to his wounds. Police initially informed Marquel was pronounced dead at the scene.

No possible suspect or information has been released by authorities yet, however, Benjamin stated they did not think about any ongoing threat which may harm the community. She said their detectives were working hard to investigate who is responsible for this, and rest assured that they will be held accountable.

Head coach of the Allen Eagles football team, Terry Gambill, called this death senseless. He said Marquel got along with everybody. He played wide receiver and was on the varsity roster, and also played on the junior varsity team to get more playing time.

The coach sadly said, “His teammates loved him. He loved his teammates, really just a good athlete, good person.” Gambill also recalled a recent tweet from Marquel that he shared about his sights set on college. “I think he was making the most of his opportunities, and that’s what sad, is that somebody cut it short. To me, it’s a shame. I still go back to, you know, ‘Why?’ I don’t think anybody will ever have that answer.” Gambill told that he had spoken to Marquel’s parents on Sunday to offer his condolences.

On Twitter account for the Allen High basketball team, they described Marquel as a phenomenal athlete and a fierce competitor. “Teammates loved being around Marquel.”, the team said. “Our basketball family is grieving, and our thoughts and prayers are with Marquel’s loved ones.”

In an official written statement, Allen ISD wrote that counselors would be available to talk to staff members and students on Monday.