Marquise Hill Missing

New England Patriots defensive lineman Marquise Hill is missing after a boating accident in New Orleans. The US Coast Guard continues to search today.

In what appears to be a holiday accident, Patriots defensive end Marquise Hill is missing after a jet-ski incident in Lake Pontchartrain, New Orleans LA. The 6-foot-6, 300-pound defensive lineman was last seen by his female companion who told authorities that Hill tried to keep her calm as the two floated in the rough waters of the lake. The woman was rescued and sent to Tulane medical center, while Hill remains missing.

Hill's agent, Albert Elias, holds out hope that the former LSU Tiger will be found. Elias commented on the status of the missing player to a local radio station in New Orleans. "I'm an optimistic guy," Elias told WWL Radio. "[Hill} is a strong kid and a fighter."

Authorities continue the search, which began late last night.

The Patriots have released the following statement:

The New England Patriots are deeply concerned to learn about the missing status of New Orleans native Marquise Hill, who was reportedly last seen after suffering an accident while jet skiing on Lake Pontchartrain in Louisiana. The U.S. Coast Guard is leading the search and rescue mission and will provide any updates on his status.

We are all shocked, said Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft after learning of the reports of Marquises accident. We can only hope and pray that the search and rescue is successful. Our thoughts and prayers are with Marquise and his family. We know that Marquise is a strong young man and will remain optimistic while continuing to pray for his rescue.

Hill selected by the Patriots in the second round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He has appeared in 13 games for New England.

Santonio Thomas (92), Vince Wilfork (75), Marquise Hill (91) and Johnathan Sullivan (96) during defensive line drills at Patriots minicamp June 14, 2006. (Photo Jon Scott/ PatriotsInsider.com)

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