Zurlon Tipton NASHVILLE, TN – DECEMBER 28: Zurlon Tipton #37 of the Indianapolis Colts carries the ball during the second half of a game against the Tennessee Titans at LP Field on December 28, 2014 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)

Former Central Michigan and Indianapolis Colts running back Zurlon Tipton died Tuesday after he accidentally shot himself at a car dealership in Roseville, Michigan. He was 26 years old.

Tipton was bringing his car in for service at about 9:30 a.m. and was removing his belongings, including a duffel bag containing two guns from the trunk. One of the guns accidentally went off, and shot Tipton in the stomach. Though police said Tipton was in good condition while on his way to the hospital, Tipton’s condition worsened and he ultimately died Tuesday afternoon.

“He was gathering up personal belongings from the interior of the vehicle, putting them into a backpack, book bag type container,” said Roseville Police Deputy Chief Donald Glandon. “While doing so, one of two guns that we in that backpack discharged, striking this individual in the stomach.”

Tipton went to Central Michigan from 2010-2014, rushing for more than 2,000 yards and scoring 34 touchdowns. The former Chippewa went undrafted in 2014 but later signed with the Colts. Tipton was released by Indianapolis in December and was a free agent at the time of his death.

Colts wide receiver Donte Moncrief was quick to express his grief regarding his former teammate. An investigation of the incident is expected to come in the coming weeks.

Baby boy you gone but not forgotten.. Lil bro gone hold it down for you and remember the motto.. “Don’t wait for it go and get it.” It’s crazy I just got that phone call bro cause I just talk to you and we talked about the future and teams giving you your second chance. No matter where I’m at or what team I’m on ill have that 37 on my wrist or glove. I’m go make sure your “little mama” good as in what you would say. Go up there and be the best running back in heaven. Rest easy 37!!!! Crazy you gone this early. My next vehicle gone be a jeep Brodie I promised you that and I won’t break that promise. All love this way. I never told you but most of my family from Detroit mane never know we could have been blood cousins you know how that goes. “Little Mama” gone be good I promise you Brodie. You in a better place one love. #flyhigh37

A photo posted by Donte Moncrief (@drm_humble10) on

[CBS 4]

About Ryan Williamson

Ryan is a recent graduate of the University of Missouri and has recently returned to his Minnesota roots. He previously has worked for the Columbia Missourian, KFAN radio in Minneapolis and BringMeTheNews.com. Feel free to email me at rwilliamson29 AT Gmail dot com.