The 17-year-old Lancaster High senior, football recruit in Wyoming, who was fatally shot near Love Field, says Dallas police

Updated at 16:45: Revised to include comments from Craig Bohl, the University of Wyoming’s head football coach.

A 17-year-old Lancaster High senior and Wyoming football recruiter was fatally shot and another person was injured early Sunday in a Hawthorn Suites hotel in the Stemmons Corridor, Dallas police said.

Tony Evans Jr. and another person was shot at about 1:30 a.m. in a room in the hotel at 7900 Brookriver Drive, about 3 miles from Dallas Love Field Airport.

Both victims were taken to a hospital, where Evans was pronounced dead. The other victim, who the police did not identify, was in a stable condition.

Friends said Evans was raised in Lancaster and had just signed a national letter of intent to play football at the University of Wyoming in February. As a senior wide receiver, he had 13 catches for 268 yards and four touchdowns for Lancaster High last season.

His mother, Aretha Evans, said in a text message that her son was a devout Christian who prayed daily and loved to sing and drive with his car.

“We’re on an emotional rollercoaster,” she said. “Our son’s life ended abruptly. We were left heartbroken. Pray that we will have strength as we prepare for our beloved Tony Evans Jr. to let rest. ”

She described her son as a caring person who was enthusiastic about life, with a great personality and a great character. He was determined and hardworking, she added.

“He encouraged the people around him,” she said.

Rodney Hudson, 18, said he had been friends with Evans for years, but had not spoken to him for about a month. He recalled talking to Evans about football during one of their last conversations.

“He wanted everything to work out,” Hudson said. ‘And he’s going to have a breakthrough season. This is what he did. Whatever he told me, he did. ‘

Hudson said Evans was funny and outgoing and especially kind and genuine.

‘There was nothing false about him; he really is, ”Hudson said. “Even though he was playful, he really is. That love he showed is real. I just want people to know that. ”

The University of Wyoming football program issued a written statement Sunday afternoon expressing sadness over the news of Evans’ death.

“Our hearts are with the Evans family as they go through this incredibly difficult time,” said head coach Craig Bohl. “We are so sad to hear of Tony’s passing. We had contact with Tony’s family and are here to support them in any way. ”

No one was arrested for the shooting and police did not release details of what led to it.

Investigators have asked anyone with information about the case to contact Detective Kim Mayfield at 214-671-3646 or [email protected] and refer to case number 061917-2021.

Crime Stoppers offered a reward of up to $ 5,000 for information leading to arrest and charge in the case. Anonymous tips can be given at 214-373-TIPS.