Police are still looking for a motive and potential suspect in the shooting death of a college football player.
At an off-campus apartment complex close to Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana—roughly 80 miles southeast of Shreveport—21-year-old Ronald Caldwell was discovered dead.
Police received a report about gunfire in the area early on Thursday morning, and they discovered the 21-year-old’s body between two buildings.
“Right now, detectives are actively working the case, what we do know is that there were several gunshots and unfortunately that’s when we located Mr. Caldwell,” said Corporal John Greely.
Greely declared at the scene that Caldwell had passed away.
Around one in the morning on Thursday, the police received a call reporting multiple gunshots in the vicinity.
The junior safety shared several rooms with other residents of his apartment building.
All of his housemates and other residents of the complex are being questioned by police, who are also offering a reward for information leading to the murder’s discovery.
In an attempt to get individuals to come forward with information, Greely said, “It is 100% anonymous, they don’t ask for your name, and you can receive an award of up to $2,500 for an arrest.”
Since sustaining an injury during the preseason, Caldwell has not yet participated in a game this season.
He was named to the Commissioner’s Honor Roll of the Southland Conference and started ten games in the previous campaign.
In observance of Caldwell, Northwestern State has canceled its next game at Nicholls State University.
“The Northwestern State family has suffered a tremendous loss,” Northwestern State football head coach Brad Laird said.
“Ronnie Caldwell was a young man who had a bright future ahead of him on or off the football field.
“He was our voice in the locker room. When Ronnie spoke, others listened.
“The respect our football team had for Ronnie was evident. He did not play a snap this year because of an injury, but his voice resonated with every member of our team from the first player to the 115th on our roster.
“Our hearts are broken and ache for Ronnie’s family and friends. His loss will be felt here at Northwestern State, in Natchitoches and in his home.
“We will treasure the time we spent with Ronnie and the memories we made, and we will hold him and his family in our hearts as we attempt to move forward in the days and weeks ahead.”
This is an ongoing case.
Natchitoches Police are asking the public for any and all information.
