Calvin Jones, a name etched in college football lore, has tragically passed away at the age of 54.
The former Nebraska running back, who dazzled fans with his speed and power in the early 1990s, was discovered in the basement of a home in north Omaha on Wednesday night, according to police. Authorities believe Jones died from carbon monoxide poisoning, as he had reportedly been running a generator due to issues with the heating in his home.
Omaha Police were called to a home near 38th and Franklin Street after a neighbor reported a gas odor to firefighters. Officers discovered a man, later identified as Jones, deceased in the basement. Police confirmed to First Alert 6 that a generator was found at the scene, and there were “signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.”
Friend Jo Dusatho told the Omaha World-Herald that Jones had been using a generator in the basement because his furnace was not working.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled in high amounts. It’s produced by burning fuel in cars, stoves, fireplaces, and furnaces. CO poisoning is especially dangerous because it’s hard to detect without a carbon monoxide detector.
The cause of death remains unconfirmed as authorities await autopsy results. Jones was celebrated for his record-setting performances and his pivotal role in the Green Bay Packers’ Super Bowl-winning season in 1996.
