Death Of Tide QB Keelon Russell's Sister Considered 'Non-Criminal'

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit says foul play is not believed to have been a factor in the death of the sister of Alabama football quarterback Keelon Russell.

Click here to subscribe to our free daily newsletter and breaking news alerts.

Captain Jack Kennedy, commander of the multi-agency unit, told local media on Thursday that after speaking with the family of Kiersten Russell, investigators were given permission to confirm the death investigation that was prompted on Wednesday, June 4.

Kennedy said since the death is considered "non-criminal" in nature, no other information will be released by investigators.

Kennedy explained that Tuscaloosa County is one of several counties in Alabama that does not have an elected coroner to conduct death investigations, with death investigations conducted by the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences (ADFS).

He said the Violent Crimes Unit works alongside ADFS on these cases, conducting initial response, physical scene investigation and collecting family and witness information.

"If no evidence is found of a criminal act, then VCU works as a liaison between ADFS and the family until the death investigation is included," he said. "Some examples of non-criminal death investigations are: natural or medical deaths, death from accidents, and suicides."

Kennedy went on to say that it is the standard practice of the VCU to limit or not release any information, including the identity of the deceased, in the cases of non-criminal death investigations.

"This is done for several reasons," he said. "First, the privacy of the family is paramount. Second, until the death investigation is concluded by ADFS (and VCU), it cannot be known with certainty the manner and cause of death."

Her brother, Keelon Russell, is a native of Duncanville, Texas and a rising freshman at the University of Alabama. He is a highly anticipated prospect for head coach Kalen DeBoer after earning national Gatorade Player of the Year for football following his senior season.

Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com.