Sports

Joe Paterno Dead at 85

ABC News reports the longtime Penn State football coach died Sunday.

Venerable former Penn State football coach Joe Paterno died earlier today, ABC News has reported.

His death comes months after a sex scandal rocked the university and prompted his firing.

"It is with great sadness that we announce that Joe Paterno passed away earlier today. His loss leaves a void in our lives that will never be filled," Paterno's family said in a statement, ABC News reported.

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Penn State University released the following statement Sunday morning regarding Paterno's death:

"We grieve for the loss of Joe Paterno, a great man who made us a greater university. His dedication to ensuring his players were successful both on the field and in life is legendary and his commitment to education is unmatched in college football. His life, work and generosity will be remembered always.

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"The university plans to honor him for his many contributions and to remember his remarkable life and legacy. We are all deeply saddened."

Paterno's death had been prematurely reported by some media outlets Saturday night.

For full coverage from ABC News, click here.

For coverage from ESPN, click here.

For coverage from the Post-Gazette, click here.

For coverage from CNN, click here.

For coverage from Huffington Post, click here.


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