Missouri State University football player Todric McGee passed away on Saturday, April 19, at 21 years old due to what is believed to be an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound, officials reported.
Springfield Police Department officers responded to a wellness check at McGee’s residence near the university on Friday morning. Upon arrival, they discovered McGee with what appeared to be a “possible accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound,” authorities stated.
Cris Swaters, a spokesperson for the Springfield Police Department, confirmed McGee was taken to a local hospital with severe injuries. Despite medical efforts, McGee died early Saturday morning.
McGee, a standout safety for the Missouri State Bears, was entering his fifth season with the team. He had been the starting safety for the 2023 and 2024 seasons and earned All-Missouri Valley Football Conference honors in 2023.
His promising 2024 season was interrupted after he suffered an injury in the fifth game of the year. Despite the setback, McGee was expected to play a central role for the Bears in the 2025 season.
Missouri State University officially announced McGee’s death on Saturday, expressing sorrow over the loss of the young player.
Ryan Beard, head coach of the Missouri State football team, stated the team was deeply affected by the incident. “Our football family is in shock and in mourning at the loss of Todric,” Beard said in a statement.
The coach requested privacy for McGee’s family and the football team, asking the public to pray for Todric and those who loved him.
Patrick Ransdell, Missouri State’s Director of Athletics, said the tragedy deeply impacted the football program, noting it has “shaken our football program to the core” while offering condolences to McGee’s family, friends, and teammates.
The university has provided grief counseling services for student-athletes and staff affected by the loss.
McGee was from Wichita, Kansas, and graduated from Wichita Northwest High School, where he was an all-state defensive back and team captain. He had received offers from several institutions, including Army, Air Force, and Southeast Missouri, but chose Missouri State University.
At Missouri State, McGee was majoring in psychology, as well as exercise and movement science, while significantly contributing to the football program.
Following his passing, Wichita Northwest High School honored McGee. School representatives described him as an “amazing young man with a heart of gold,” emphasizing his impact on and off the field.
McGee is survived by his parents, brother, and sister, according to university statements.
The Missouri State community has come together to support McGee’s family and teammates during this time. His contributions to the football program and presence on campus left a notable impact on those who knew him.
McGee’s death marks a significant loss for the Missouri State football program as they prepare for the upcoming season. He was expected to be a key player for the Bears in 2025, having established himself as a reliable defensive back in previous seasons.