Golf: Police investigate LPGA player's death

LAS VEGAS - LPGA golfer Erica Blasberg died Monday (NZT) in a Las Vegas suburb, according to police and her agent.

Henderson police spokesman Keith Paul today said that authorities were investigating the 25-year-old American's death.

It was not immediately clear whether foul play was involved.

Paul said police responded to a 911 call and were dispatched to Blasberg's suburban three-bedroom house around 3pm (local time) on Sunday. Paul declined to say who made the call, saying it was part of the investigation.

Blasberg's agent, Chase Callahan, confirmed her death but declined to provide details because of the investigation.

Blasberg played her only LPGA Tour event this year two weeks ago in Mexico and tied for 44th.

She found greater success in college, winning six times in two years at the University of Arizona and playing on the Curtis Cup team in 2004.

She turned professional that year.

LPGA spokesman David Higdon called Blasberg's death a "tough hit" for women's golf.

"She was a very popular player and well-liked and we're going to miss her," Higdon said. "This is a very close-knit group of players and tour and we're saddened by what happened."

LPGA player Meg Mallon said the news will "hit hard" for tour participants.

"I'm just very sad and just really kind of sick to my stomach that a life ended so young," Mallon said.

"People in Mexico passed her by or hit balls next to her on the range and everyone's having their own moments right now," she said.

- AP