Denver RB Damien Nash dead at 24

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 24 (UPI) -- Denver Broncos backup running back Damien Nash, 24, died Saturday shortly after serving as host of a charity basketball game.

"The Broncos family has suffered a great loss with the passing of Damien Nash," Denver Coach Mike Shanahan said in a statement released by the team. "I am stunned and deeply saddened by this tragedy and send my deepest condolences to Damien's family."

The cause of death was not immediately known.

The charity game was organized in honor of Nash's brother, the recipient of a heart transplant. Funds were being raised for the Darris Nash Find a Heart Foundation.

It was the second tragedy in less than two months for the Broncos organization. Cornerback Darrent Williams was killed in a drive-by shooting outside a Denver night club on New Year's Day.

"The Denver Broncos organization is once again struck with profound sadness over the tragic loss of one of our players," said Broncos owner Pat Bowlen. "This is a tremendous tragedy and our hearts go out to the entire Nash family."