Pompano Beach, Florida, December 6, 2025
Elden Campbell, a former NBA champion, tragically drowned while fishing off a Florida beach. His body was discovered near a jet ski, and authorities have ruled his death an accident. Campbell had a notable 15-year NBA career, primarily with the Los Angeles Lakers, and won a championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004. He is survived by his wife, children, and siblings, and is remembered as a devoted family man and person of faith.
Pompano Beach, Florida
Former NBA Champion Elden Campbell Found Dead on Florida Beach
Elden Campbell, a 57-year-old former NBA champion, was found deceased on a Florida beach on December 1, 2025. Authorities have ruled his death as an accidental drowning.
Discovery and Investigation
On the evening of December 1, a beachgoer reported spotting what appeared to be a human body washed ashore. Upon closer inspection, the individual confirmed the presence of a deceased person. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and discovered Campbell’s body near a jet ski on the beach. He was pronounced dead at 8:03 PM. The Broward County Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death as accidental drowning. While no foul play is suspected, homicide and crime scene detectives are continuing their investigation.
Background on Elden Campbell
Campbell had a distinguished 15-year career in the NBA, spending the majority of his time with the Los Angeles Lakers. He also played for the Charlotte/New Orleans Hornets, Seattle SuperSonics, Detroit Pistons, and the New Jersey Nets. Notably, Campbell won an NBA Championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004. He was known for his consistent performance and leadership on the court. Off the court, Campbell was described by his family as a man of faith who valued family above all else. He is survived by his wife, four children, and three siblings.
Family’s Statement
In a statement released by Campbell’s family, they described him as “a man of faith who trusted in his lord and savior Jesus Christ. Husband, father, brother, cousin and friend.” They further stated, “He was a man to whom family meant everything—generous, funny, disciplined, and kind, but could shut you down if required. A man of God, he passed doing what he loved; fishing out on the ocean, enjoying his idea of an ideal day.”
911 Call Audio Released
Recently, audio from the 911 call reporting Campbell’s death was released. In the recording, the caller describes seeing a body washed up on the shore and initially being unsure of what it was. Upon closer inspection, the caller confirmed it appeared to be a deceased person. This audio provides insight into the moments leading up to the discovery of Campbell’s body.
Recent NBA Games
| Matchup | Date | Final Score |
|---|---|---|
| Lakers (LAL) @ Raptors (TOR) | Thursday, Dec 04, 2025 | LAL 123 – TOR 120 |
| Lakers (LAL) @ Celtics (BOS) | Friday, Dec 05, 2025 | LAL 105 – BOS 126 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What was the cause of Elden Campbell’s death?
- Elden Campbell’s death was ruled as an accidental drowning.
- Where was Elden Campbell found?
- Elden Campbell was found on a Florida beach near a jet ski.
- Which NBA teams did Elden Campbell play for?
- Elden Campbell played for the Los Angeles Lakers, Charlotte/New Orleans Hornets, Seattle SuperSonics, Detroit Pistons, and the New Jersey Nets.
- Did Elden Campbell win an NBA Championship?
- Yes, Elden Campbell won an NBA Championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004.
- Who is Elden Campbell survived by?
- Elden Campbell is survived by his wife, four children, and three siblings.
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