Alabama AD Greg Byrne Releases Statement Refuting Kai Spears' Presence at Fatal Shooting

A report from the New York Times stated that Spears was in Brandon Miller's car at the scene of the murder of Jamea Harris.

After reports emerged Wednesday  night that a fourth Alabama basketball player was present at the murder of Jamea Harris, the Alabama administration is making sure to clarify that walk-on Kai Spears was not at the scene. 

Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne released a statement during halftime of the Crimson Tide's Round of 64 game against Texas A&M- Corpus Christi. 

"First and foremost, we never lose sight of the victim in this situation," Byrne said in the statement. "It is a heartbreaking situation, and we continue to extend our deepest sympathies.

“From day one, we have been firm in our commitment to fully support and cooperate with law enforcement as they investigate this tragedy. We cannot interfere with law enforcement’s investigation. We also cannot disclose law enforcement’s information.

“Last night, an inaccurate report was published about Kai Spears, one of our student-athletes, being present at the time of the incident. This is untrue. As law enforcement previously shared, Brandon Miller and Jaden Bradley were present. Both are fully cooperating witnesses. Neither have been charged with any offense nor did they violate University policy.

“Some inaccurate narratives have been reported about the involvement of Alabama student-athletes that display an unfortunate disregard of the facts. We ask all to exercise careful due diligence before reporting on this sensitive situation.

“As previously mentioned, it is not our role to share details about a pending legal matter. We will rely on law enforcement to disclose information if and when they deem it appropriate as we continue to fully support their investigation. Questions about the incident should be directed to them. Nevertheless, we felt like we had to address the inaccurate report from last evening.”

Spears, his father, Marshall athletic director Christian Spears and Spears' lawyer have all released statements with a similar message. The freshman has not appeared in a game for Alabama this season. 

Former Alabama player Darius Miles has been arrested and indicted for capital murder in the death of Harris. In a preliminary hearing, current Crimson Tide players Brandon Miller and Jaden Bradley were named as witnesses at the scene. 

See also:

Former Alabama Basketball Player Darius Miles Indicted on Capital Murder Charges

Brandon Miller Accompanied by Security at NCAA Tournament

Seven SEC Sports' Future Scheduling Formats are Approved