A sixth-round pick of the New York Giants on Saturday, Corey Ballentine’s triumph turned to tragedy as he was wounded in a shooting that saw a Washburn University teammate killed.
Dwane Simmons, a 5-foot-9, 170-pound junior, was found dead early Sunday when Topeka Police responded to a disturbance that involved gunfire.
Ballentine the Ichabods’ star cornerback and All-American, was reportedly being treated at a local hospital, sources told The Capital-Journal. Topeka Police Lt. Andrew Beightel said in a news release that Ballentine’s injury wasn’t life-threatening. Ballentine, 23, was taken to the hospital by private vehicle, Beightel said.
“Heartbreaking news about Dwane Simmons,” Washburn coach Craig Schurig said. “Dwane is one of the most energetic and well-liked players I have ever coached at Washburn. Dwane’s infectious smile and love for football and his teammates was truly inspirational. Our prayers of healing go out to his family.”
Ballentine, a 6-0, 205-pounder, concluded his college career by making 50 tackles, having three interceptions and blocking three kicks in 2018.
“We are aware of the tragic situation and continue to gather information,” the Giants said in a statement. “We have spoken to Corey, and he is recovering in the hospital. Our thoughts are with Dwane Simmons’ family, friends and teammates and the rest of the Washburn community.”
Simmons, 23, overcame ACL tears to both knees to return to action last fall.
He had been sidelined for the final two games of ’15, all of ‘16 and the last 10 games in ‘17, but returned in 2018.
“We are aware of the tragic situation and continue to gather information,” the Giants said in a statement. “We have spoken to Corey, and he is recovering in the hospital. Our thoughts are with Dwane Simmons’ family, friends and teammates and the rest of the Washburn community.”
Topeka police have initiated a homicide investigation into the incident, Lt. Jerry Monasmith said in a news release.
