Deputies initially responded to a call about a noise disturbance at the party around 2:30 a.m. before receiving information about the shooting. Overton was pronounced dead at the scene. The Guilford County Sheriff’s Office has opened a homicide investigation.
Overton, who wore number 14 for Clemson, was a beloved member of the Tigers’ football program. He was a key contributor to the team’s national championship victories in 2016 and 2018, and was voted a senior team captain in 2019.
“Clemson Football and the entire Clemson Family mourns the passing of Clemson alumnus Diondre Overton,” the school announced in a social media post. “Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney expressed deep sadness over the loss, saying, “It took the wind out of my body this morning. He truly was one of the sweetest-spirited kids we’ve had come through here. My heart hurts.”
During Clemson’s game against Appalachian State on Saturday, a moment of recognition was held for Overton. Quarterback Trent Pearman and safety Rob Billings, both wearing No. 14, led the Tigers down the hill in honor of Overton. The school also placed a Clemson balloon and flowers by a plaque with Overton’s name on campus.
Overton, who wasn’t drafted into the NFL, spent time playing in the CFL, the European League of Football, the USFL’s Philadelphia Stars, and most recently, the UFL’s Memphis Showboats.
Tributes from former Clemson teammates have poured in on social media.
