New York Jets defensive lineman Quinnen Williams was reportedly arrested Thursday night after allegedly attempting to board an airplane with a gun at LaGuardia Airport in New York.
Andy Vasquez of USA Today reported the news, noting Williams, 22, was arrested after they determined his permit for the gun is only valid in Alabama.
Darryl Slater of NJ.com noted Williams is being processed by Port Authority Police and is set to be charged with criminal possession of a weapon.
According to Slater, the weapon was a Glock 19 pistol.
ESPN's Rich Cimini reported Williams was arrested prior to going through security, and the gun was not loaded. Per Cimini, whether or not the gun was loaded is an important detail in the case:
Rich Cimini @RichCiminiWilliams has a March 25 desk/court appearance, according to a spokesperson for the Queens DA office. At that time, he will have formal charges. Authorities haven't indicated if the gun was loaded; that is an important detail. NYC gun laws are strict. #Jets
However, Cimini noted that because Williams did have ammunition for the gun with him, New York law could still technically deem it to have been loaded.
Williams' attorney, Alex Spiro, released a statement on the arrest and allegations against his client, per agent Nicole Lynn:
Nicole Lynn @AgentNicoleLynnStatement from Quinnen Williams's attorney, Alex Spiro: Mr. Williams respects and follows the law. There was allegedly a technical issue with the manner in which the lawfully owned firearm was stored - and we expect the matter to be resolved shortly.
Brian Costello of the New York Post passed along a statement from the Jets on the arrest Friday:
Brian Costello @BrianCozJets team spokesperson on Quinnen Williams: “We have been in contact with Quinnen Williams and are fully aware of the situation. We will have no additional comment as this is a pending legal matter.” #nyj
As noted by Cimini, Williams' first court appearance was slated for March 25, when he will receive his formal charge.
The Jets selected Williams with the No. 3 overall pick of the 2019 NFL draft out of Alabama. He figured to be a key part of their defense for years after the selection, and he finished with 28 tackles, 2.5 sacks and one fumble recovery in 13 games during his rookie campaign.
He was a consensus All-American and won the 2018 Outland Trophy as the nation's best interior lineman during his collegiate career.