Patriots' Aaron Hernandez Home Searched In Connection To Murder Case: Rental Car Allegedly Links Athlete To Crime Scene

Aaron Hernandez, the New England Patriots tight end, has been unofficially linked to a homicide investigation after his home was searched by police officials.

The murder of a 27-year-old "associate" of Hernandez prompted the Massachusetts State Police and prosecutors to raid the football player's $1.3 million, 5,600-square-foot mansion yesterday.

The victim's body was found around 5:30 pm Monday in a field near John Dietsch Boulevard. According to Bristol County District Attorney Sam Sutter, due to the "nature and circumstances" of the body, the case was handed to Massachusetts State Police.

In addition, a rental 2013 Chevrolet Suburban with Rhode Island license plates was found near the crime scene that somehow led investigators to Hernandez.

"I think the kids around here, especially, look up to the Patriots players," said neighbor Jill Cambridge and Patriots fan.

"I just hope he's not involved in this."

According to ABC, two of Hernandez's friends tried to leave the house during the search, but were instead stopped by a state police car. Their vehicles were subsequently searched.

Hernandez was also reportedly uncooperative at first with the police. The Patriots, meanwhile, have yet to comment on the events.

"I am aware of the reports, but I do not anticipate that we will be commenting publicly during an ongoing police investigation."