A tragic turn of events has struck the Missouri State football program as they mourn the loss of one of their defensive stalwarts.
According to Breitbart, Todric McGee, a 21-year-old starting safety for Missouri State Football, died Saturday following what police have described as a "possible accidental" gunshot wound at his residence.
The incident occurred on Friday at McGee's home, leading to his death the following day. Springfield Police Department officials are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting, which they have preliminarily classified as a possible accident.
Community gathers to remember fallen athlete
The Missouri State football community has been deeply affected by the sudden loss of their teammate and friend. A vigil held Monday night outside the Missouri State Football facilities drew approximately 100 attendees, including McGee's family members, demonstrating the profound impact he had on those around him.
McGee had established himself as a crucial member of the Missouri State football program. As the team's starting safety in both 2023 and 2024, he was preparing to enter his fifth year with the program when the tragic incident occurred.
The university's athletic department has taken immediate steps to support the team and McGee's family during this difficult period. Athletic Director Patrick Ransdell expressed the department's commitment to helping the football program cope with their loss.
Athletic department pledges support for team
Missouri State's Athletic Director Patrick Ransdell shared the following statement regarding the tragic loss:
This tragedy has shaken our football program to the core, and we want them to know we are here to support them in every way possible at this extremely difficult time.
The university has mobilized resources to provide counseling and support services for team members, coaching staff, and other affected individuals within the athletic department. The football program is working closely with McGee's family to ensure they receive necessary assistance during this challenging period.
The team's coaching staff has temporarily suspended regular activities to allow players time to process their grief and attend memorial services. Several team meetings have been scheduled to help players cope with the loss of their teammate.
Moving forward while honoring McGee's memory
The Missouri State football program faces the challenging task of navigating through this tragedy while preparing for the upcoming season. Team leaders and coaching staff are discussing appropriate ways to honor McGee's memory during the 2025 season.
McGee's impact on the program extended beyond his on-field performance. His teammates have shared stories of his leadership qualities and positive influence in the locker room, making his loss particularly difficult for the team to process.
The university is considering establishing a memorial scholarship in McGee's name to ensure his legacy continues to inspire future generations of student-athletes at Missouri State.
Legacy of a Missouri State student athlete
Todric McGee, a 21-year-old starting safety for Missouri State Football, lost his life in what police have described as a possible accidental shooting at his residence. The incident, which occurred on Friday, resulted in his death the following day, leaving behind a grieving family, team, and university community.
The Missouri State football program, under the guidance of Athletic Director Patrick Ransdell, has pledged full support to both the team and McGee's family while working to establish appropriate ways to honor his memory in the upcoming season. The university continues to provide counseling services and support to all affected members of the athletic department as they cope with this devastating loss.
