CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Charlotte surgeon expected in court for opening arguments in a civil suit filed by former NFL player Samari Rolle has been found dead in his apartment.
The Charlotte Observer reports Dr. Craig Brigham was found dead shortly after 7 a.m. Monday. OrthoCarolina spokeswoman Blair Primis said Brigham’s death appeared to be caused by an existing medical condition.
Rolle’s lawsuit claims Brigham botched spinal fusion surgery in September 2008. Brigham and OrthoCarolina denied the claim.
The lawsuit filed in 2011 said Rolle was told by Brigham that he could resume NFL activity. Rolle played the final six games of 2008 with the Baltimore Ravens, but didn’t play again. He retired in 2010, suffering from several problems, including pain, numbness and tingling in the upper left part of his torso.
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