Joe Paterno Has Not Passed Away, Family Spokesman Says

A spokesman for the family of Joe Paterno is denying the former Penn State coach has passed away on Saturday afternoon. Following numerous reports indicating Paterno had passed away, the spokesman released a statement categorically denying the rumors.

The report comes from Mark Viera, who passes along the spokesman's quick statement.

Dan McGinn, the Paterno family spokesman, at 8:57 p.m. on reports about Joe Paterno's death: "Absolutely not true."

— Mark Viera (@markcviera) January 22, 2012

Paterno was in serious condition on Saturday after his health began to decline rapidly. He's been hospitalized since Jan. 13 while dealing with complications from lung cancer. On Saturday morning, multiple reports indicated Paterno was taken off a respirator, with family and friends summoned to his bedside.

There were also reports that Penn State players were sent an email informing them of Paterno's passing. McGinn denied those as well.