Mystery as soccer player found dead in hotel room with dad’s business partner after ‘tragic accident’

A former college football player and his father’s business partner have been found dead in a hotel room as police open an investigation into the mysterious deaths.

Sheldon van Deventer, co-owner of the Erie Sports Park league, and Declan Bingham – a former Gannon University football player and son of Deventer’s business partner – were found dead Saturday morning in a Chicago hotel room.

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Van Deventer, 45, and Bingham, 24, were found unresponsive by staff at the Hyatt Regency hotel.

Bingham’s father, Troy, confirmed the deaths in a Facebook post, calling it a “tragic accident”.

“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I confirm the loss yesterday of my partner and son to a tragic accident,” Troy wrote.

“The impact is immense and we are busy dealing with the grief. The Erie Sports Center will remain open and further information will be released soon.”

The Gannon University men’s football team described Bingham as a “charming young man”, calling him “Gannon’s football leader”.

“The program mourns Declan Bingham. A lovely young man and football leader Gannon since the day he walked into the locker room.

“Succeeded in every task undertaken, excelled on and off the football pitch. We will miss you brother ❤️⚔️,” the program added.

The university also paid tribute to van Deventer, saying: “The program mourns Sheldon van Deventer. Sheldon will always be remembered for his smile, his generosity and his larger than life personality.

“Wonderful alumni who never missed a game, great footballer and student-athlete. We will miss you bro ❤️⚔️.”

Chicago Police Department officials have launched an investigation into the mysterious deaths.