Paul Oliver, former player with Chargers, commits suicide

Paul Oliver, a defensive back for five seasons with the San Diego Chargers, was found dead at his home in Marietta, Ga., on Tuesday night and a medical examiner ruled his death as suicide.

Police reportedly said Oliver, 29, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Oliver was signed by the Chargers after playing college football at Georgia. He did not appear in a game as a rookie in 2007, but from 2009 to 2011 he played in 45 games, starting in 12, including eight in 2010.

All-Pro tight end Antonio Gates and quarterback Philip Rivers told reporters at Chargers practice that Oliver’s death was hard on them.

“You just never know; life is so short,” Gates said. “My condolences and prayers go out to his family and kids.”

Said Rivers: “It’s sad to lose anyone, for that matter, but a guy that you played with. ... I can remember interactions with him like it was yesterday.”

Wire services and Internet reports contributed to this story.

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