Missouri State University football player Todric McGee passed away on Saturday at 21 years old, following an incident authorities suspect was an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound, officials reported.
Springfield Police Department officers arrived at McGee’s residence near the university on Friday morning after receiving a wellness check call. They discovered McGee with what they termed a “possible accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound,” according to authorities.
Cris Swaters, the spokesperson for the Springfield Police Department, confirmed McGee was taken to a local hospital with serious injuries. Despite medical intervention, he died early Saturday morning.
“He was transported to the hospital with serious injuries where he later died. This is an active investigation,” Swaters stated in an email.
McGee was a prominent safety for the Missouri State Bears football team, entering his fifth season with the program. He was the starting safety during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, earning All-Missouri Valley Football Conference honors in 2023.
His 2024 season was prematurely halted after he sustained an injury in the fifth game of the year. He was anticipated to play a vital role for the Bears in the 2025 season.
Missouri State University officially announced McGee’s death on Saturday, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of the athlete.
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 expressed in a statement.
The coach requested privacy for McGee’s family and the team during this challenging period, asking for prayers for Todric and his loved ones.
Patrick Ransdell, Missouri State’s Director of Athletics, remarked that the event has profoundly impacted the football program, describing it as having “shaken our football program to the core,” while extending condolences to McGee’s family, friends, and teammates.
The university has provided grief counseling services for student-athletes and staff members 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 received football offers from several schools, including Army, Air Force, and Southeast Missouri, but chose Missouri State University.
At Missouri State, McGee majored in exercise and movement science while making significant contributions to the university’s football program.
Following his death, Wichita Northwest High School paid tribute to their former student. School representatives described McGee 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, as stated by the university.
Local authorities are continuing to investigate the incident, with preliminary reports suggesting it was accidental. The Springfield Police Department has classified it as an active investigation.
The Missouri State community has come together in support of McGee’s family and teammates as they begin the healing process. His contributions to the football program and presence on campus left a significant impact on those who knew him.
McGee’s passing represents a considerable 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.
The university confirmed that McGee had been with the Missouri State football program for five seasons, developing into a valued player. His athletic achievements and personal character are remembered fondly by those who knew him.
