Authorities have apprehended Sergio Brown, a former NFL player, in relation to the death of his mother, who was discovered deceased near her suburban Chicago residence last month. Brown, who had recently traveled to Mexico, was deported on Tuesday and subsequently taken into custody by US law enforcement officials near San Diego. As per an arrest warrant from Illinois, police in San Diego are currently arranging for Brown's transfer to the Chicago area.
Mexican law enforcement officers have been aware of Brown's location since at least September 19th, according to a source. After authorities in Illinois obtained an arrest warrant related to the death of Brown's mother, he was deported.
The Maywood Police Department stated in a news release that authorities discovered the body of Myrtle Brown, 73 years old, on September 16th after her relatives reported her and her son missing. The department reported that her body was found near a creek behind her home in Maywood, approximately 11 miles from Chicago.
Myrtle Brown's family remembered her as "a beautiful, loving, and inspirational soul that made everyone around her feel like they mattered."
According to spokeswoman Natalia Derevyanny, Myrtle Brown's cause of death was determined to be injuries resulting from an assault by the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office. The manner of death was classified as a homicide.
Sergio Brown's brother, Nick Brown, reached out on social media seeking assistance in locating him.
"Currently, my brother Sergio remains missing," expressed Nick Brown via Instagram. "To Sergio, if anyone possesses any information regarding your whereabouts, I want you to be aware that I love you and kindly return home."
"It's a bittersweet yet optimistic period, and collectively we shall overcome this," expressed Nick Brown on an online platform. "My mother always instilled in me the belief that difficult moments are transient, and that conversation serves as my guiding light of hope.
"Mom, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your resilience, compassion, dedication, elegance, humor, and for preserving my artwork. I promise not to disappoint you."
Family said they had no contact with Brown
Sergio Brown, aged 35, commenced his football career as a defensive back at Notre Dame. Following his time at the university, he joined the New England Patriots in 2010 as an undrafted free agent. Sergio went on to showcase his skills for seven seasons in the NFL, representing teams such as the Patriots, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Buffalo Bills.Last week, attorney Christian Conway released a statement on behalf of Myrtle Brown's family, urging authorities, especially the Cook County States Attorney's Office, to intensify the investigation into her death. The family emphasized that there exists ample evidence to make an arrest and pleaded for the pursuit of truth and accountability in order to relieve them from the burden of uncertainty surrounding the circumstances of their loved one's passing.
The family also said they had not been in touch with Sergio Brown since his disappearance.
Sergio Brown helps to coach a team of local school children on July 15, 2015, in London, England.
Dan Mullan/Getty Images/File
Sergio Brown, a former NFL player, is currently missing following the ruling of his mother's death as a homicide. The statement expressed our continuous prayers for his safety and emphasized the importance of his prompt and secure return to the United States. It called for collective efforts to transform this heartbreaking tragedy into a catalyst for constructive change and the pursuit of justice.
The family stated that Myrtle had a captivating presence, radiating beauty, love, and inspiration to all those in her presence. Her infectious smile and charismatic personality made each person feel valued and important. Her absence has created an indescribable void, not just in our personal lives, but also in the communities we are a part of. CNN affiliate WBBM interviewed neighbors who praised Myrtle Brown while in the midst of searching for Sergio Brown.
"Myrtle was an exceptional woman, and I hope she is now in the presence of God," shared Carlos Cortez, her neighboring acquaintance, with WBBM. "I could never have anticipated such a tragic event."
Residents in the vicinity portrayed Myrtle as a stylish individual, extroverted in nature, and someone who thoroughly enjoyed dancing.
Neighbor Kevin Grayer, speaking to CNN affiliate WLS, described the victim as a lovely lady who was soft-spoken, outgoing, and constantly engaged. Grayer emphasized her cheerful demeanor, highlighting her exceptional personality. Expressing his dismay, Grayer added that the victim did not deserve such a tragic end, emphasizing that her demise was particularly disheartening considering her genuinely good nature.
CNNs Jared Formanek, Kevin Dotson, Nouran Salahieh, Mitchell McCluskey and Caroll Alvarado contributed to this report.