Ciarre Campbell, the brother of Baltimore Ravens defensive end Calais Campbell, was arrested Wednesday and charged with murder after their mother was found dead in Ciarre’s Atlanta home, authorities said.
Police were called to Ciarre Campbell’s home for a welfare check on Tuesday. Authorities found his mother, 71-year-old Nateal Campbell, unresponsive, according to multiple reports.
Court records show that Ciarre Campbell, 41, has been charged with murder, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm or knife during commission of or attempt to commit certain felonies.
“We are devastated to share that the Campbell family has lost its matriarch, Mrs. Nateal Campbell,” the Campbell family said in a statement released to ESPN. “While the details of her passing are still being investigated, we take comfort in knowing she is reunited with our father, her beloved Chuck, and in the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.”
Ciarre, Calais and Nateal Campbell were co-founders of the CRC Foundation, named for the family’s late patriarch, Charles Richard Campbell. The organization provides mentorship, educational opportunities and other resources to help young people “live out their dreams,” according to a mission statement.
Calais Campbell was named the Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2019, in part due to his work with the CRC Foundation.
“You taught me how to roll up my sleeves and go get whatever it is I wanted in life,” Calais Campbell wrote in a letter to his mother as part of an ESPN segment in 2018. “I’m part of a lot of things in my life, but I’m most proud to call you my mother.”
Nateal Campbell worked as a counselor and adviser for the foundation after previously serving as a social worker and ordained minister.
Calais Campbell, 39, re-signed with the Ravens this spring for his 19th NFL season. The six-time Pro Bowler played for the Arizona Cardinals in 2025 and previously spent three seasons in Baltimore from 2020 through 2022.
“We are incredibly saddened to learn about the passing of Calais Campbell’s mother,” the Ravens said in a statement. “We extend our deepest condolences and full support to Calais and his family during this difficult time. We ask that everyone please respect their privacy while they grieve from this heartbreaking loss.”
The Miami product has started 259 games, more than any other active NFL player, while recording 117 sacks and 960 tackles across stints with five teams.
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