Joe Paterno death reports are taken down

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The news about Joe Paterno’s rapidly declining health has been a big story all day, since even before word from the family spokesman that he was in serious condition and that the family hoped its privacy could be respected.

Paterno’s story, of course, has been one of the biggest sports topics in years as the iconic coach’s legendary career became overshadowed in the fallout from the Jerry Sandusky child sex abuse case.

Saturday, as news outlets looked for developments on the 85-year-old former coach’s condition, at least two Internet reports were published saying that he had died. At one, Onward State, which covers Penn State, the managing editor resigned his position after removing its post that Paterno had died. Here’s former managing editor Devon Edwards’ announcement on Facebook.

Paterno’s sons Scott and Jay both used Twitter to provide information refuting the report that their father had died. Jay Paterno wrote, ‘Joe is continuing to fight.’

Scott Paterno wrote: ‘CBS report is wrong -- Dad is alive but in serious condition. We continue to ask for your prayers and privacy during this time.’

Jay Paterno later tweeted, ‘Drove by students at the Joe statue [on Penn State’s campus]. Just told my Dad about all the love & support -- inspiring him.’

Those posts of Paterno’s death were taken down fairly quickly. It’s unclear exactly what his condition is, but clearly it’s very serious.

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--Mike James