The University of Toledo has announced the creation of a memorial scholarship fund in the name of football player Jahneil Douglas, who was shot and killed in Toledo on July 7.
The Jahneil Douglas Memorial Scholarship Fund will give a scholarship annually to a former Rockets football player who has completed athletic eligibility and plans to attend graduate school or is completing a bachelor's degree.
Preference will be given to student-athletes from Toledo, and applicants must have a minimum grade-point average of 2.5.
"Jahneil was a beloved member of our football program and Rocket family, so we felt it was appropriate to honor his memory with a scholarship fund that will benefit future Rockets," Toledo vice president and athletic director Mike O'Brien said in a press release.
Added Toledo football coach Jason Candle: "Jahneil was an inspirational teammate who sought to positively impact every individual that he encountered. Although JD is no longer with us, his impact will continue to be felt at the University of Toledo. Through the Jahneil Douglas Memorial Scholarship Fund, an individual will have the opportunity to pursue a post-graduate education after playing football at the highest collegiate level. We are incredibly thankful for the Toledo community's generosity, which will allow JD's legacy to live on at the University of Toledo."
Douglas, a Start High School graduate, played in 12 games in his two years at Toledo and recorded two tackles.
Michael Mitchell, Jr., 24, was indicted Thursday for one count of murder, and two counts of felonious assault, all carrying a gun specification, for the shooting death of Douglas.
Jeff Lingo, special units chief of the criminal division at the Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office, said Thursday there was a dispute over an incident involving a mutual friend of both Douglas and Mitchell, which led to the shooting.
Douglas was a two-way standout on the football field at Start. He was named to the Associated Press Division I All-Ohio first team in 2016.
First Published July 17, 2020, 5:38 p.m.
