Federal prosecutors have announced charges against a convicted murderer who admitted he sold the gun that was used to kill former National Football League quarterback Steve McNair.
Agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives arrested Adrian J. Gilliam jnr and charged him with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
The 33-year-old Gilliam could face a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $300,000, prosecutors said.
According to a criminal complaint, Gilliam told police he sold the gun to the woman who later shot McNair.
McNair was shot and killed on July 4 at his condo by his 20-year-old mistress, Sahel Kazemi, who then turned the gun on herself.
Gilliam was convicted in 1993 in Florida for murder and attempted armed robbery.
Investigators said Friday that Gilliam used a photo provided by police to identify Kazemi as the person who bought the gun from him for $125.
Police have said they don't know the exact motive for the killing but said Kazemi had been distraught in recent weeks about making ends meet financially. She feared her rent was going to double because a roommate was moving out on her. She was also making payments on two cars and dealing with a drink driving episode.
McNair, a star with the Tennessee Titans who also played for the Baltimore Ravens before retiring last year, was survived by wife Mechelle and four children.