Cause Of Former Dallas Cowboy's Star Marion Barber’s Death Revealed

Former National Football League star Marion Barber III died of heat stroke in June, authorities confirmed on Monday.

According to the full autopsy report obtained by TMZ Sports, the running back for the Dallas Cowboys and Chicago Bears, died after exercising in "sauna-like conditions" in his apartment.

Officials said Barber's body was found in his residence, where the thermostat was set at 91 degrees and the heat was set to "on." Frisco, Texas, police said the Collin County medical examiner ruled the 38-year-old's death an accident. There was no evidence of trauma or a drug overdose found inside Barber's body and "no clear evidence of natural disease found" either.

Investigators found exercise equipment at the scene and said that Barber did have a "history of exercising during sauna-like conditions." Barber had reportedly not been seen for around three weeks before the discovery of his body on June 1.

According to the police, several people told them that they tried to make contact with Barber throughout May as there appeared to be a leak coming from his apartment; however, they got no response from the athlete.

Police forced their way into Barber's apartment on June 1. They discovered him dead inside the shower of his residence's master bedroom. They confirmed that water had been running in the tub in the guest bathroom.

Barber was a fourth-round draft pick of the Cowboys in 2005 after playing at Minnesota. He was considered a Pro Bowl in 2007 after he recorded 975 yards and 10 touchdowns. In 99 career games, he recorded a total of 4,780 yards on the ground and scored 53 touchdowns.

Dallas Cowboys said they were "heartbroken" due to Barber's sudden death. "We are heartbroken by the tragic death of Marion Barber III." "Marion was an old-school, hard-nosed football player who ran with the will to win every down. He had a passion for the game and love for his coaches and teammates. Our hearts go out to Marion's family and friends during this difficult time."

Chicago Bears also expressed their grief, "We are saddened to learn of the passing of former Bears RB Marion Barber III. Our hearts go out to his family & friends."

According to Barber's attorney, Zoltan Papp, he has started a trucking venture and had spent the past few years trying to help kids in inner cities while also fighting for social justice.