The San Francisco 49ers released defensive end Ray McDonald, according to Matt Maiocco of Comcast Sports Network Bay Area. San Jose police are investigating rape allegations leveled against McDonald this week.
49ers release Ray McDonald
San Francisco parted ways with the veteran defensive end on Wednesday after rape allegations were reported.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Police were called to a local hospital on Monday when staff there treated a possible sexual assault victim. The woman told authorities that the attack took place on Monday. A preliminary investigation revealed McDonald as the suspect, and they executed a search warrant on McDonald’s house on Tuesday. No charges have been filed and no arrests have been made at this point.
49ers general manager Trent Baalke said in a statement after McDonald’s release that the decision was “not about just this incident. This is about a pattern.” Baalke added that both ownership and the coaching staff was involved in the decision to drop McDonald.
McDonald was arrested in August on suspicion of felony domestic violence. His fiancee reported that McDonald attacked her, but the ensuing investigation did not find evidence that such an attack had occurred. No formal charge was ever made. Authorities dropped the case in November after concluding their investigation. McDonald was not suspended and remained on the 49ers active roster while police investigated the allegations.
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