Northwestern State football player killed in fatal shooting; Saturday’s game canceled

After a Northwestern football player was found with several gunshot wounds at an apartment complex on University Parkway early this morning, Natchitoches Police are asking the public for help finding those responsible for the fatal shooting. Corporal John Greely said 21-year-old Ronald Caldwell’s body was found between two buildings at the complex where he lived…

“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 Greely.

Greely said Caldwell died at the scene.

Police received a call around 1 a.m. this morning of several gunshots in the area. The Junior Safety lived at the complex and investigators are interviewing his roommates and others at the complex. If you have any information about the shooting you are urged to call Natchitoches Crimestoppers at (318) 238-2388.

“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,” said Greely.

Caldwell had not played any games this season after a preseason injury. He started ten games last year and was a member of the Southland Conference Commissioner’s Honor Roll.

The native of Manor, Texas was also honored as Northwestern’s Student-Athlete of the Month this month.

Saturday’s NSU football game at Nicholls has been canceled as a result.

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of one of our current students, Ronnie Caldwell Jr. Ronnie was a talented junior business administration major from Austin, Texas. Ronnie’s dedication to the community was truly inspiring, as evidenced by his spending the summer coaching a local youth baseball team, and teaching those children the values of competition and sportsmanship.

During these difficult times, I extend my deepest condolences and offer my prayers to Ronnie’s family and friends. The entire NSU community shares in your grief and sorrow. Counseling and support services are available to all students, faculty, and staff who may need them.

While we mourn the loss of Ronnie, let us also honor and celebrate his life. Ronnie will forever be cherished as a beloved member of the NSU family.