A former boxer, Danny Kelly Jr., was fatally shot by an unknown gunman in front of his girlfriend and three kids on his way to a holiday feast in Temple Hills in Maryland, US.
Although his children and the girlfriend were not injured, police said Kelly was shot on a 'heavily-travelled' roadway by the assailant who pulled up beside him and opened fire
Daily Mail reported that the 30-year-old pugilist died later in the hospital.
Kelly's death has been linked to possible road rage and a $25,000 reward is being offered for tips leading to the arrest and conviction of his killer
'This is an absolutely heartbreaking loss for Mr. Kelly's family and friends,' major crimes acting Major David Blazer said December 25.
'He is not home with his loved ones today on Christmas who are now mourning his loss instead of celebrating the holiday.'
Kelly, who went by the ring alias Danny 'Smooth', fought in the heavyweight professional category from 2012 to 2019.
He knocked out opponent Nick Kisner during his final match October 18, 2019, and on Sunday Kisner paid tribute to his ring rival.
'Danny was a good dude,' Kisner wrote on Facebook. 'Me and him were cool before the fight and even after the fight. He was a hell of fighter too.
'But truth be told, I never had any clue I'd be the last person that he ever fought. And in a way I'm glad that he went out with a win. He was a good guy, and he deserved [that].'
It's not clear why Kelly retired from boxing, nor is it known whether he took up another occupation in more recent years.
