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Patriots release Aaron Hernandez

Tight end Aaron Hernandez, shown playing against Buffalo's Chris Kelsay in 2012, has been released by the New England Patriots after being taken from his home in handcuffs Wednesday morning.
(Elise Amendola / Associated Press)
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The New England Patriots have released embattled tight end Aaron Hernandez.

Hernandez was handcuffed and arrested Wednesday morning at his home in North Attleborough, Mass., in connection with the death of his 27-year-old acquaintance, Odin Lloyd, whose bullet-riddled body was found in a nearby industrial park.

Police are treating the death as a homicide.

The Patriots, making their first public comments on the situation, posted a statement on their website explaining their release of Hernandez:

“A young man was murdered last week and we extend our sympathies to the family and friends who mourn his loss. Words cannot express the disappointment we feel knowing that one of our players was arrested as a result of this investigation. We realize that law enforcement investigations into this matter are ongoing. We support their efforts and respect the process. At this time, we believe this transaction is simply the right thing to do.”

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