A well-known Louisiana university has canceled the remainder of its football season after the recent death of a player on the team.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana announced this week the season was over following the shooting death of safety Ronnie Caldwell.
“Ronnie was a beloved member of our community, and we miss him dearly,” Northwestern State president Marcus Jones said. “While our instinct was to return to the field of play following his death, we’ve since learned that the hurt on our team was too deep. Now it is in the best interest of our players, coaches, and staff to pause and to take this time to mourn, to heal, and to support Ronnie’s family.”
Caldwell was found dead on October 12th after police responded to a shots fired call at an apartment complex. The Natchitoches Police Department said it had arrested defensive tackle Maurice Campbell for obstruction of justice, marijuana possession with the intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled substance.
Campbell was the second person arrested related to Caldwell’s death. Campbell’s roommate, John McIntosh, was previously booked for possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled substance.
Caldwell, a transfer from Tyler Junior College, had been injured this season and was working as a volunteer coach for the defensive backs while he rehabbed.
“He was our voice in the locker room,” Laird said in a statement when Caldwell died. “When Ronnie spoke, others listened. The respect our football team had for Ronnie was evident. He did not play a snap this year because of an injury, but his voice resonated with every member of our team from the first player to the 115th on our roster.”
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Laird, who was in his sixth season as head coach of the Demons, said he needed to step down.
“Due to the loss of Ronnie and the emotional burden it has caused me, I don’t feel I can give my all to these players or this program,” Laird said. “Any coach will tell you that their players become like family, so the loss of Ronnie was like losing a son. I love this program and this university and I know it will persevere and move forward with the competitive spirit that is at the core of our DNA.”
Northwestern State will finish the season at 0-6 after canceling games against McNeese, Houston Christian, Incarnate Word, and Texas A&M Commerce.
The team played one game after Caldwell’s death and lost 37-20 to Southeastern Louisiana on Oct. 19th.
