Garcia praises Taylor for saving niece

MIAMI, Nov. 29 (UPI) -- Hollywood actor Andy Garcia is praising slain NFL player Sean Taylor for his bravery in saving the lives of his baby daughter and girlfriend, Garcia's niece.

Jackie Garcia hid with their 18-month-old child while Taylor confronted his assailant and was shot.

Police said they believe Taylor was the victim of a botched break-in, The Washington Post said.

"His heroic action on that tragic night saved their life and is a testament to his humanity and courage," Andy Garcia said in a statement issued to The Miami Herald. "His spirit will live forever, in our hearts and through the legacy of his achievements and the family he leaves behind."

Jackie Garcia and Taylor, who met at Gulliver Prep School, attended the University of Miami together and welcomed their first child, also named Jackie, last year.

"Sean was known to many as an extraordinary athlete and unquestionable teammate," Andy Garcia said. "To those of us who had the good fortune to count him as a member of our extended family, we will always remember him as a caring and loving individual especially to his new family, his precious daughter Jackie and to the love of his life and mother to his child, my niece, Jacqueline."