On June 12, Southern Mississippi University is saddened by the tragic loss of a senior defensive back from the university’s football team.
Marcus “M.J.” Daniels Jr. tragically passed away on Tuesday night due to an apparent gunshot wound following a shooting incident at an apartment complex in Hattiesburg, Miss.
Authorities are currently seeking suspects in connection to the incident.
Police discovered Daniels in an unresponsive state inside his vehicle, which was parked at the Ivy Row apartment complex located off-campus in Hattiesburg.
Forest County Coroner Lisa Klem informed local media that her office received a call at 10 p.m. regarding an incident at the apartment complex situated at 219 Ivy Row Circle.
Daniels was confirmed deceased at the scene by the coroner, and his body was transferred to the state’s medical examiner for further examination.
Head football coach Will Hall and other university staff were present at the crime scene after the shooting.
Aged 21, Daniels served as a senior defensive back for Southern Mississippi University and had previously played for the University of Mississippi.
During his sole season with the Golden Eagles last year, he recorded 29 tackles and led the team with three interceptions.
“The University of Southern Mississippi and the Department of Athletics express their deep sorrow for the loss of M.J. Daniels,” stated university officials on Wednesday. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and teammates during this challenging period.”
A native of Lucedale, Miss., Daniels excelled as a football standout at George County High School.
Hattiesburg Police Department is actively pursuing the perpetrators to ensure justice for the victim and his family, as stated by Chief Hardy Sims in a news release on Wednesday.
Individuals with information are encouraged to contact Hattiesburg police detectives at 610-545-4971, reach out to Crime Stoppers at **Tips
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