Northwestern State University’s football team has been rocked by tragedy after the fatal shooting of junior safety Ronnie Caldwell on October 12, 2023. The team has since cancelled the remainder of their football season, and head coach Brad Laird has resigned in the wake of Caldwell’s death.
The decision to cancel the remainder of the football season was made with the team’s mental health and well-being in mind. The university cited the “unimaginable grief and trauma” experienced by the players and staff following Caldwell’s death as the reason for the cancellation. The decision to cancel the season was also made with the support of the Southland Conference and the NCAA.
Coach Brad Laird’s resignation followed the cancellation of the remainder of the football season. Laird had been the head coach of Northwestern State University’s football team since 2018. In a statement, Laird expressed his condolences to Caldwell’s family and the university community and thanked the players, coaches, and staff for their dedication and hard work.
Ronnie Caldwell Coach Brad Laird Resign
On October 21, 2023, Ronnie Caldwell, a 23-year-old coach at Northwestern State University, was fatally shot in Natchitoches, Louisiana, shocking the university community. Caldwell had quickly risen through the ranks, going from graduate assistant to full-time defensive backs coach in just two years.
Reasons Behind Laird’s Resignation
In the wake of Caldwell’s death, Northwestern State University canceled the rest of its football season, and head coach Brad Laird resigned. The resignation came as a surprise to many, as Laird had been with the team for over a decade, serving as an assistant coach before being promoted to head coach in 2018.
While the university did not provide an official reason for Laird’s resignation, many speculate that it was due to the negative attention the program received following Caldwell’s death. Additionally, some have raised concerns about the team’s overall performance under Laird’s leadership, as the Demons had a 12-17 record during his tenure as head coach.
Impact on the Team
The loss of both Caldwell and Laird has had a significant impact on the Northwestern State football program. Caldwell was well-respected by his colleagues and players, and his death has left a void in the team’s coaching staff. Laird’s resignation has also left the team in a state of uncertainty, as they search for a new head coach to lead them in the future.
The university has not yet announced who will serve as the interim head coach for the remainder of the season, leaving many questions unanswered. The Demons were set to play Nicholls State University before the season was canceled, and it remains unclear if they will play any more games this year.
Overall, the loss of Caldwell and Laird has been a tragedy for the Northwestern State football program, and it will take time for the team to recover and move forward.
Ronnie Caldwell Murder Case Update
Recent Developments
Northwestern State University football player Ronnie Caldwell was fatally shot on October 12, 2023, near the NSU campus. The incident led to the cancellation of the rest of the football season, and head coach Brad Laird resigned soon after.
The Natchitoches Police Department is still investigating the murder case, and as of yet, no suspects have been publicly named. However, the police have stated that they are following up on several leads and are optimistic that they will identify and apprehend the perpetrator soon.
The NSU community has been deeply affected by the tragedy, and there have been several vigils and remembrance events held in honor of Caldwell. The university has also set up a scholarship fund in his name to support student-athletes.
Public Reaction
The news of Caldwell’s murder has shocked and saddened many people, both within the NSU community and beyond. The incident has sparked discussions about gun violence and campus safety, with some calling for stricter gun control laws and increased security measures on college campuses.
Many of Caldwell’s teammates and coaches have spoken out about their grief and disbelief at his death, describing him as a talented athlete and a kind and caring person. Several other universities and sports teams have also offered their condolences and support to the NSU community during this difficult time.
Overall, the investigation into Ronnie Caldwell’s murder is ongoing, and the NSU community continues to mourn his loss and honor his memory.
