Police in Mississippi are investigating the shooting death of a University of Southern Mississippi football player at an off-campus apartment.
Marcus Daniels Jr., 21, was found unconscious in a vehicle by Hattiesburg police Tuesday night at the Ivy Row Apartments and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said Wednesday they have not identified any suspects and have not released a motive.
Daniels, a native of Lucedale, Mississippi, played defensive back for the Golden Eagles and led the team with 29 total tackles and three interceptions in his lone season with the team, according to the university.
He played at the University of Southern Mississippi before transferring to the school and was a standout player at George County High School, according to the school.
“Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and teammates during this difficult time,” the university said on its website, adding that out of respect for Daniels' family, it would not be making any further comment.
Daniels' mother, Adrienne Jackson, posted a photo to Facebook on Wednesday of her son wearing one of his old football uniforms.
“My baby!” she wrote.
Facebook poster LaQuandra Conner said she loved Daniels like a second son.
“I am so grateful that God allowed us to meet. You were a one of a kind son and I will never forget you,” Connor wrote. “I pray that God gives your mom, dad, brothers, family, son and everyone you touched the strength to get through this. I am so saddened to learn that you are no longer here.”
Hattiesburg police have asked the public to come forward with any further information.
“Our hearts go out to the Daniels family,” Police Chief Hardy Sims said in a statement Wednesday. “We are committed to finding the perpetrator and bringing justice to the victim and her family.”
