Jason Thomas Berryman, a 28-year-old former Iowa State football player, was found dead in his home in Jefferson, Texas, on January 8, 2014. Berryman, who had a troubled career marked by both stellar play and legal issues, was discovered by family members who were visiting a nearby relative. The Jefferson Police Department confirmed that Berryman died from multiple gunshot wounds, and the death was being investigated as a murder.
Police Chief Joe C.
Hall stated that it appeared someone else caused Berryman's death, but no suspects had been identified at the time. The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the Texas Rangers, Marion County Sheriff's Office, Texas Highway Patrol, and Texas Parks and Wildlife officers. Despite following several leads, the police had not yet released any information about potential suspects.
Berryman's career at Iowa State was notable for his impressive defensive play, earning him the Big 12 Conference Defensive Newcomer of the Year honors in 2003. However, his time at the university was also marred by legal troubles, including a conviction for first-degree theft and assault causing injury in 2004. He spent about eight months in jail for these offenses. Berryman later signed with the NFL's Cincinnati Bengals but was waived, and he also played for the Iowa Barnstormers of the Arena Football League before being suspended indefinitely.
Despite his legal issues, Berryman was remembered by his former teammates and coaches as a talented and dedicated player who was trying to turn his life around. His death was a tragic end to a life filled with both promise and challenges.
