Northwestern State has canceled the rest of its football season, two weeks after junior safety Ronnie Caldwell was shot and killed, the school announced Thursday.
We miss Ronnie terribly; he was a cherished member of our community, NSU President Marcus Jones stated in a statement. After his passing, our first thought was to get back on the field, but we’ve now realized that the damage to our team was too great. 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 assist Ronnie’s family.
In addition, head coach Brad Laird tendered his resignation, citing the psychological toll. He was the show’s director for six seasons. In the interim, Weston Glaser, the defensive coordinator, will lead the team.
I don’t feel I can give my all to these guys or this program because of Ronnie’s passing and the emotional toll it has taken on me,” Laird stated in the press statement. As any coach knows, their players grow to be like family, so losing Ronnie was like losing a son. I adore this university and this program, and I have no doubt that it will endure and grow in the spirit of competition that is ingrained in our DNA.
Caldwell, a native of Cedar Park, Texas, passed away on October 12. According to KALB in Louisiana, John McIntosh, Caldwell’s roommate, was charged with possessing a firearm while in the presence of a controlled dangerous narcotic and was detained the next day. However, the local police have not confirmed whether or not this arrest is related to Caldwell’s death. In addition, KALB reported on October 20 that Northwestern State defensive tackle Maurice Campbell was taken into custody in relation to Caldwell’s death and charged with possessing a firearm while under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance, as well as obstruction of justice.
Following Caldwell’s passing, Northwestern State promptly postponed their match. Last Friday, the Demons faced Southeastern Louisiana; they lost 37-20 to drop to 0-6.
Jones expressed gratitude to the Northwestern State community, family, friends, and team for their understanding in making this tough choice. We are grateful for your assistance during this trying time.
