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SPRINGFIELD, MO — Missouri State University is mourning the tragic loss of senior football player Todric McGee, who died early Saturday, April 19, from injuries sustained in what authorities say may have been a self-inflicted gunshot wound resulting from a negligent discharge.

As reported by NBC News, Springfield Police responded to McGee’s residence Friday morning for a wellness check. Upon arrival, officers discovered the 21-year-old with serious injuries. He was transported to a local hospital where he later died. Authorities have not released additional information as the investigation remains ongoing.

McGee was a native of Wichita, Kansas, and a graduate of Wichita Northwest High School. He was entering his fifth season with the Missouri State Bears and had earned all-conference honors in 2023 as the team’s starting safety.

“This tragedy has shaken our football program to the core,” said Missouri State Director of Athletics Patrick Ransdell in a statement. “We want [Todric’s] family, friends, and teammates to know we are here to support them in every way possible at this extremely difficult time.”

Head football coach Ryan Beard also expressed his sorrow: “Our football family is in shock and in mourning at the loss of Todric. We ask everyone to please respect the privacy of his family and our MoState football team as we begin the healing process. Join us in praying for Todric and the people who loved him.”

Grief counseling services have been made available to Missouri State student-athletes and staff.

While many details about the incident have yet to be released, authorities indicated that the shooting appears to have been the result of a negligent discharge — a preventable tragedy that underscores the critical importance of strict adherence to firearm safety protocols.

The four fundamental rules of firearm safety, as outlined by USACarry, are designed to prevent precisely this type of incident:

1. Treat all guns as if they are always loaded.
2. Always point the muzzle in the direction of least consequence.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target.
4. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.

A negligent discharge often occurs when even one of these rules is ignored. Whether experienced or new to firearms, the responsibility to handle guns safely is paramount. Firearms are tools that demand constant awareness, discipline, and respect — especially in domestic or casual settings, where complacency can be deadly.

This devastating loss is a sobering reminder that gun ownership carries not only the right to self-defense, but a profound duty to uphold the highest standards of safety.

Our thoughts remain with the family, friends, teammates, and Missouri State community during this time of grief.