Former TU Linebacker's Death Caused By Sickle Cell Trait Complications

The state Medical Examiner's Office says a former University of Tulsa football player who fought in an unsanctioned boxing match at Tulsa's Guts Church died from sickle cell trait complications.

A full autopsy report on what caused George Clinkscale's death on September 21, 2011 won't be released for several more weeks.

As a linebacker and four-year letterman at TU, Clinkscale, 24, played in 53 games and started 33 contests, while collecting 127 tackles, 18 stops for -92 yards and four fumble recoveries in his career.

In a lawsuit filed in October 2011 Clinkscale's family alleges the church violated a long list of state regulations, including not providing medical care at ringside.

The plaintiffs claim that lack of immediate medical care after Clinkscale was injured contributed to his death. Clinkscale became critically ill within minutes after his match and died shortly after arriving at St. Francis Hospital.

10/29/2011 Related Story: Family Of Former TU Linebacker Files Lawsuit Against Tulsa Church