On the night of August 24th, former Gears of War and Fortnite pro Christopher “Xcells” Hill was shot dead at his home in Boones Hill, Virginia. This is according to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, which shared details of the investigation on Thursday.
As reported by WDBJ7 (opens in new tab), the incident occurred after the homeowner was approached by a man he didn’t know (later identified as Hill) and “the homeowner shot and killed Hill.” A spokesperson for the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department told WDBJ7 he has no pending charges.
Hill played Gears of War professionally for teams including Eunited, NRG, Hazard Esports, Enigma6, and Echo Fox before retiring in 2017. He played Fortnite professionally in 2018 and 2019, but more recently, convulsions (opens in new tab) For 23,000 followers. The last time he streamed was just two days before the murder.
Blaze, an esports caster and talent manager, recalled Hill on Twitter, calling him “one of the best players I’ve ever touched on Gears.”
This hurts, Chris was a nice guy. It was a pleasure casting him and getting to know him. He’s one of the greatest players ever to touch Gears. Rest in peace 🕊️😢 @Xcells_ https://t.co/VayPYorzz8August 25, 2022
Nicholas “Icy” Cope, former Gears pro and 10-time champion Condolences on Twitter (opens in new tab) Along with many other friends and fellow esports players. “I’m heartbroken. I love you Tsubomi and I’m sorry that this world was so hard on you.FUCK MAN.RIP.”
Hill was 26 years old.
Thank you, dot esport (opens in new tab).
