Northwestern State Football Player Shot and Killed; Game Cancelled
In a tragic turn of events, a Northwestern State football player has been shot and killed, leading to the cancellation of their upcoming game. The player, junior safety Ronnie Caldwell, was fatally shot in the early hours of Thursday morning at the Quad Apartments on University Parkway in Natchitoches. Local police are currently investigating several persons of interest in relation to the incident.
Ronnie Caldwell had a promising future ahead, both on and off the football field. Hailing from Cedar Park High School near Austin, he went on to attend Tyler Junior College before transferring to Northwestern State after the 2021 football season. His untimely passing has left the Northwestern State family devastated.
Coach Brad Laird expressed his grief over the loss, stating, The Northwestern State family has suffered a tremendous loss. Ronnie was a young man who had a bright future ahead of him on or off the football field. He was our voice in the locker room. When Ronnie spoke, others listened. The respect our football team had for Ronnie was evident.
Caldwell had started 10 games in 2022 but had not been able to play this season due to an injury sustained before the season started. Regardless, his impact on the team was immeasurable. He was named to the Southland Conference Commissioner’s Fall Honor Roll for his outstanding academic achievements, with a grade point average of at least 3.0 during the semester of competition.
Kevin Bostian, the Director of Athletics, expressed the collective sorrow felt by the university community. We are stunned and saddened by the sudden loss of Ronnie. He was a devoted teammate, friend, brother, and son. Ronnie’s ever-present smile and ability to light up any room he entered will be remembered by those who had the pleasure of knowing him.
The passing of Ronnie Caldwell leaves a void not only in the Northwestern State football program but also in the lives of his family, friends, and teammates. The university and the community mourn his loss and extend their deepest condolences to his loved ones.
As the investigation continues, the focus now shifts to honoring Caldwell’s memory and supporting those affected by this tragic event. It is a somber reminder of the fragility of life and serves as a call for unity and compassion during these trying times.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Ronnie Caldwell’s family, friends, and teammates during this difficult period. May his soul rest in peace.
