CRIME, Hubert "Boo Boo" Thompson charged with murder [D209]

I saw Hubert Thompson wrestle in high school. He was one of the most dominant high school wrestlers I'd ever seen. He was so strong he could pick-up the other heavyweights like they were little kids.

Chicago Tribune (Matthew Walberg):

For reasons that remained unclear Saturday, Thompson hurled [James] Malone [66 year old, a neighbor] over a balcony Friday afternoon, killing him, police said. Thompson was charged with first-degree murder and was being held in lieu of $3 million bail.

After attending Proviso West Thompson played football at Michigan State University. The article says Thompson was cut by the New Orleans Saints after two days for fighting with another player.

If I recall correctly (IIRC) Thompson had trouble scoring high enough on his college entrance exams to be admitted to a Division I school. There was talk of him being drafted directly to the NFL. He was that developed and talented.

I didn't interact with Thompson, but from what I heard through wrestlers he was a nice guy if a completely intimidating opponent.

[UPDATE: Sun-Times (Ben Goldberger and Dave Newbart) has the story on the front page of the Sunday paper.

[A couple things got my attention.

Authorities said Thompson allegedly made incriminating statements in an interview. He also allegedly told authorities that he believed Malone had tried to poison him.

DuPage County State's Attorney Joseph Birkett said Saturday that officials are awaiting the results of mental evaluations, expected this week. "There's some substantial psychological issues that have to be addressed," he said.

[Apparently Thompson and the victim were friendly. Thompson has a history of mental health issues.]