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FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - The New England Patriots are terribly saddened to learn that Marquise Hill's death has been confirmed by the Orleans Parish Coroner's Office. The New Orleans native was reported missing Sunday night after suffering an accident while jet skiing on Lake Pontchartrain in Louisiana. The U.S. Coast Guard led the search and rescue efforts, teaming up with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department.

"We are absolutely heartbroken to learn of Marquise's death," said Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft. "Our immediate thoughts go to Marquise's mother, Sherry, and the rest of his family. He was only 24 years old and his death is hard to comprehend. Marquise was a very respectful young man who worked hard to improve and was always eager to contribute to the team, both on the field and in the community. On behalf of the entire Patriots organization, we extend our most heartfelt sympathies to Marquise's family and friends who mourn his loss."

"We have suffered a stunning and tragic loss today," said Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick. "Marquise will be remembered as a thoughtful and caring young man who established himself as one of the year-round daily fixtures of our team. I send my deepest condolences to the Hill family."

Hill, 24, was born in New Orleans, La. on Aug. 7, 1982. He attended De La Salle High School, where he earned national acclaim as one of the top high school football prospects in the country. He was recruited to Louisiana State University, where he helped the Tigers win a national championship in 2003. The 6-foot-6-inch, 300-pound defensive end was drafted by the Patriots in the second round of the 2004 NFL Draft and was a member of the Patriots' Super Bowl XXXIX championship team his rookie year. He appeared in 13 games in three seasons with the Patriots.