Former NFL Player Braylon Edwards Saves 80-Year-Old Man From Attack

Former NFL player Braylon Edwards is being hailed as a hero after intervening in an incident at a YMCA in Farmington Hills, Mich., where an 80-year-old man was allegedly attacked in a locker room. The quick actions of Edwards led to the arrest of the suspect, 20-year-old Malik Ali Smith, who was charged with assault with intent to murder.


Former NFL player Braylon Edwards is being hailed as a hero after intervening in an incident at a YMCA in Farmington Hills, Mich., where an 80-year-old man was allegedly attacked in a locker room. The quick actions of Edwards led to the arrest of the suspect, 20-year-old Malik Ali Smith, who was charged with assault with intent to murder.

Edwards's Heroic Intervention

In an interview with Detroit station WDIV, Edwards recounted how he heard commotion in the locker room and initially ignored it until it turned violent. He described hearing the sounds of a physical altercation escalating, which prompted him to step in and subdue the assailant before further harm could be done to the victim.

Praise from Law Enforcement

Farmington Hills Police Chief Jeff King commended Edwards for his courageous actions, stating that his intervention played a crucial role in saving the victim's life. The victim, who remains unidentified, is in critical but stable condition at a local hospital.

Legal Ramifications

Smith was arraigned and remains in jail with a bond set at $250,000. If convicted of the felony charge, he could face life in prison. His attorney emphasized that Smith has a history of mental health issues and is not a violent person. However, Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald condemned the attack as vicious and senseless and vowed to seek justice for the victim.

Braylon Edwards's Background

A standout wide receiver at the University of Michigan, Edwards was drafted third overall by the Cleveland Browns in 2005. Throughout his NFL career, he also played for the New York Jets, San Francisco 49ers, and Seattle Seahawks. Known for his impressive stats and Pro Bowl selection, Edwards retired with 359 catches, 5,522 yards, and 40 touchdowns.

A Humble Hero

Despite the praise and recognition for his heroic actions, Edwards remains modest about his intervention, stating that he simply did what was right. As a Detroit native and current resident of West Bloomfield Township, Edwards's selfless act has exemplified the best in society and underscored the importance of stepping in to help others in need.

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Hamza Ilyas

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