Aaron Hernandez Update: NFL star released from New England Patriots following arrest in murder investigation

(CBS) NORTH ATTLEBOROUGH, Mass. - Aaron Hernandez has been released from the New England Patriots following his arrest earlier Wednesday morning, CBS Boston reports. 

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"The New England Patriots have announced the release of tight end Aaron Hernandez following his arrest in the investigation of a homicide last week in North Attleboro, Mass," the Patriots said in a statement.

"A young man was murdered last week and we extend our sympathies to the family and friends who mourn his loss. Words cannot express the disappointment we feel knowing that one of our players was arrested as a result of this investigation. We realize that law enforcement investigations into this matter are ongoing. We support their efforts and respect the process. At this time, we believe this transaction is simply the right thing to do," the statement continued.

The announcement was made less than two hours after the 23-year-old former tight-end was taken into custody by police. The Massachusetts State Police confirmed via Twitter that Hernandez was arrested shortly after police obtained an arrest warrant.

Police say Hernandez was booked at North Attleborough Police Station and will be brought to Attleboro District court for arraignment later today. The charge against him will not be released until it is presented to the court, according to a tweet from the State Police.

Hernandez has been the focus of a homicide investigation for more than a week.

The body of Odin Lloyd, 27, of Dorchester, was found in a field less than a half-mile away from Hernandez's home on June 17. He had reportedly been shot.

Lloyd's family told CBS Boston that he was dating the sister of Herndandez's fiancée.

Police had questioned Hernandez and searched his home several times in the past week and left with boxes of evidence, according to the station.

The former football player has reportedly retained the high-powered Boston law firm of Ropes and Gray.

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