The Locksley family and the Howard County (Md.) police renewed their search on Thursday for Meiko Locksley's killer.
Meiko Locksley was 25 years old when he was fatally shot in Columbia, Md., on this day in 2017.
"We hope as a family that anyone that's listening, who may have information, that you come forward and help bring closure to our family," Mike Locksley said Thursday. "Three years ago today, we received a knock on our door down in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, that would forever change our world, our family's lives. We were left that night feeling numb and hurt. That night, we joined a group of people who have buried their children, a fraternity no one wants to be a part of."
Locksley was Alabama's offensive coordinator at the time. He was since returned to Maryland as the Terps' head coach. Columbia, Md., is 20 miles north of College Park.
Meiko played for his father at New Mexico before finishing his career at Lackawanna College.
Police Capt. Cory Zirk said it was law enforcement's belief that Meiko's killer was likely a known figure at the time of his slaying. The police department on Thursday doubled the reward from $10,000 to $20,000 for information leading to an arrest. The Locksleys have also raised $40,000.
"We don't think this incident was random," Zirk said. "Our detectives believe that this act of violence was likely committed by someone Meiko knew, whether the motive was robbery, or had something to do with drugs, or an ongoing dispute remains to be confirmed. Someone out there knows what happened over the course of three years. We know that new information can come to light, relationships and friendships and other circumstances may change."
"Nothing will ever bring Meiko back. Nothing will ever fill the void we have left in our hearts," Mike Locksley said. "He will forever be in our hearts. We just hope and pray for closure."
Persons with information are encouraged to reach out at 410-313-STOP or HCPDcrimetips@howardcountymd.gov.