Rising star and Missouri state football standout Todric McGee dies at 21 in tragic shooting incident
Pranjal Chandra | Apr 20, 2025, 17:21 IST
Missouri State University is mourning the loss of Todric McGee, a 21-year-old football player, who died from a possible accidental, self-inflicted gunshot wound. McGee, a rising star and leader on the team, was found at his home after a welfare check.
The Missouri State University community is grappling with profound grief following the tragic and untimely death of one of its brightest student-athletes, Todric McGee. The 21-year-old safety, who had been a pillar of the Bears' football team, died early Saturday after suffering what authorities are calling a possible accidental and self-inflicted gunshot wound.
McGee was found at his home on Friday morning when Springfield Police officers responded to a welfare check. Though he was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries, he later succumbed to them.
“This is an active investigation,” said police spokesperson Cris Swaters. “At this time, evidence suggests the gunshot wound may have been self-inflicted and accidental.”
The news has sent shockwaves across the Missouri State campus and beyond, as teammates, coaches, and fans try to make sense of the heartbreaking loss. Known for his leadership on and off the field, McGee was entering his fifth year with the Bears and had established himself as a defensive powerhouse. His standout performance during the 2023 season earned him all-conference honors, and he was expected to be a key leader for the upcoming season.
Missouri State University confirmed the news Saturday morning, expressing sorrow over the death of a young man who was more than just an athlete.
“Our football family is in shock and in mourning at the loss of Todric,” said head coach Ryan Beard in a statement released by the university. “He was a brother, a leader, and a beloved member of our team. We ask for privacy during this time as we support his family and our players. Please join us in lifting Todric and his loved ones up in your thoughts and prayers.”
McGee’s journey to collegiate football success began in Wichita, Kansas, where he grew up and graduated from Wichita Northwest High School. He was widely admired for his work ethic, determination, and quiet confidence—traits that defined his presence on the field. Those who knew him best described him as kind-hearted, humble, and deeply committed to both his sport and his community.
Former coaches and friends from Wichita also paid tribute on social media, remembering McGee not just for his athletic talent but for the positive energy he brought to every room.
“He was the kind of kid you wanted to root for,” one former coach posted. “Focused, respectful, and always striving to do better. The world lost a good one.”
As the investigation continues, there are still unanswered questions surrounding the circumstances of his death. However, the emphasis within the Missouri State community remains firmly on honoring McGee’s memory and supporting those left behind.
Universities across the Midwest have reached out with condolences, while students and athletes at Missouri State have begun organizing memorials, including a candlelight vigil and a moment of silence at the upcoming spring game. Campus counselors have also been made available to help students process the sudden loss.
McGee’s death is not just a devastating blow to Missouri State football—it’s a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of mental health awareness and firearm safety, especially among young people.
As tributes pour in from around the country, one thing is clear: Todric McGee’s impact reached far beyond the field. He was a rising star, a role model, and a young man with a future as bright as his smile. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
McGee was found at his home on Friday morning when Springfield Police officers responded to a welfare check. Though he was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries, he later succumbed to them.
“This is an active investigation,” said police spokesperson Cris Swaters. “At this time, evidence suggests the gunshot wound may have been self-inflicted and accidental.”
The news has sent shockwaves across the Missouri State campus and beyond, as teammates, coaches, and fans try to make sense of the heartbreaking loss. Known for his leadership on and off the field, McGee was entering his fifth year with the Bears and had established himself as a defensive powerhouse. His standout performance during the 2023 season earned him all-conference honors, and he was expected to be a key leader for the upcoming season.
Missouri State University confirmed the news Saturday morning, expressing sorrow over the death of a young man who was more than just an athlete.
“Our football family is in shock and in mourning at the loss of Todric,” said head coach Ryan Beard in a statement released by the university. “He was a brother, a leader, and a beloved member of our team. We ask for privacy during this time as we support his family and our players. Please join us in lifting Todric and his loved ones up in your thoughts and prayers.”
McGee’s journey to collegiate football success began in Wichita, Kansas, where he grew up and graduated from Wichita Northwest High School. He was widely admired for his work ethic, determination, and quiet confidence—traits that defined his presence on the field. Those who knew him best described him as kind-hearted, humble, and deeply committed to both his sport and his community.
Former coaches and friends from Wichita also paid tribute on social media, remembering McGee not just for his athletic talent but for the positive energy he brought to every room.
“He was the kind of kid you wanted to root for,” one former coach posted. “Focused, respectful, and always striving to do better. The world lost a good one.”
As the investigation continues, there are still unanswered questions surrounding the circumstances of his death. However, the emphasis within the Missouri State community remains firmly on honoring McGee’s memory and supporting those left behind.
Universities across the Midwest have reached out with condolences, while students and athletes at Missouri State have begun organizing memorials, including a candlelight vigil and a moment of silence at the upcoming spring game. Campus counselors have also been made available to help students process the sudden loss.
McGee’s death is not just a devastating blow to Missouri State football—it’s a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of mental health awareness and firearm safety, especially among young people.
As tributes pour in from around the country, one thing is clear: Todric McGee’s impact reached far beyond the field. He was a rising star, a role model, and a young man with a future as bright as his smile. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.