Nateal Campbell was remembered by her family as its matriarch.
ATLANTA, Ga. — The family of NFL veteran Calais Campbell is mourning Nateal Campbell after police found her dead at an Atlanta townhome and charged another son, Ciarre Campbell, with murder.
The case has drawn attention because of Calais Campbell’s long NFL career and his family’s public work through the Charles Richard Campbell Foundation. The foundation was created in memory of the family’s late father, Charles “Chuck” Campbell, and lists Nateal Campbell and her children among its founders.
Police said the investigation began with a welfare check requested by a concerned family member. Officers went to the Buckhead home and found Nateal Campbell, 71, dead. Ciarre Campbell was later booked into the Fulton County Jail on charges that include murder, aggravated assault and possession of a knife.
The Campbell family released a statement saying it was devastated by Nateal Campbell’s death. The family described her as its matriarch and said the details of her passing remained under investigation. The statement also asked for privacy as relatives grieve.
Calais Campbell, a six-time Pro Bowl selection, played for the Atlanta Falcons in 2023 and is now with the Baltimore Ravens. He has been widely recognized for community service during his NFL career, including work tied to the family foundation.
Investigators have not said whether Ciarre Campbell lived at the townhome. Atlanta police Lt. Christopher Butler said officers had received previous calls connected to the location, including a possible arson incident in April and indications of possible mental health concerns involving an individual.
Defense attorney Jay Abt said his client is presumed innocent and said the case should be handled in court. Police have not released a final cause of death, and court proceedings were still pending Wednesday.
The case remains active in Fulton County, with investigators reviewing evidence from the home and the next court step expected after arraignment is scheduled.
Author note: Last updated July 1, 2026.