CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The civil trial that was to begin Monday for a former NFL cornerback who filed a lawsuit against a Charlotte surgeon has been declared a mistrial.
Dr. Craig Brigham was found dead inside his apartment Monday morning.
Eyewitness News received a statement from OrthoCarolina on Monday afternoon stating that Brigham's death was related to a pre-existing medical condition.
"We are extremely sad to report that Dr. Craig Brigham passed away this morning from what appears to be causes related to an existing medical condition. Dr. Brigham was an exceptional orthopedic surgeon and was a nationally recognized and well-respected expert in the treatment of spinal disorders over the course of his 29-year-career. We ask that you respect his family’s and OrthoCarolina’s privacy during this very difficult time," said OrthoCarolina spokesperson Blair Primis.
In September of 2008, Baltimore Ravens Samari Rolle hurt his neck.
The team sent him to OrthoCarolina, where Brigham determined he would need a spinal fusion operation.
The lawsuit alleges the physician failed to exercise due care.
In the lawsuit, Rolle is asking for damages due to the loss of his professional NFL career.