We reported yesterday that Steve McNair and an unidentified woman were found shot to death in a downtown condominium on Saturday, July 4 in Nashville. The 20-year-old woman has now been identified as Sahel Kazemi.
The retired NFL quarterback and his girlfriend of several months were found dead in the living room of the Rutledge House condo, which was being rented by the athlete and his friend, sporting goods dealer Wayne Neeley.
McNair was discovered still seated on a sofa, the victim of multiple gunshot wounds, including two in the head. Kazemi was killed by a single gunshot wound to the head. The weapon is believed to be the pistol that was discovered near her body. The crime was discovered by Neeley when he entered the residence shortly after 1:00 p.m. Saturday afternoon.
Kazemi and McNair were pulled over two days earlier while driving a 2007 Cadillac Escalade that was registered to her and McNair. She was arrested for a DUI, and he was allowed to leave in a taxi. At the time, the woman exhibited bloodshot eyes and had alcohol on her breath but refused a breathalyzer test, claiming she was not drunk, she was high.
Authorities are investigating the possibility of a lovers quarrel that led to murder-suicide, but have not entirely ruled out foul play. Mechelle Cartwright McNair, wife of the slain man, is reported to be distraught according to police spokesman Don Aaron. He said, “At this juncture we do not believe she is involved. Nothing has been ruled out, but as far as actively looking for a suspect tonight, the answer would be no.”
Steve McNair apparently met the 20-year-old at Dave & Buster’s restaurant in Nashville where Kazemi worked as a waitress. According to the restaurant manager, Kazemi was reliable 90 percent of the time.
McNair is survived by two sons from previous relationships as well as his wife of twelve years, Mechelle and their two sons Tyler and Trenton.
The investigation continues, with autopsies scheduled for Sunday.
View photos of Mechelle McNair, her son Trenton and a photo of the McNair’s during happier times below. We’ve also included several videos detailing the crime. Click link for TMZ photos.