The family of college football player Todric McGee paid tribute to him on Monday night after he accidentally shot himself in a fatal incident over the weekend.
Missouri State player McGee, 21, died on Saturday morning, with his school confirming in a statement that the incident had occurred a day earlier on Friday morning. Police have determined the shooting was accidental.
His loved ones gathered on Monday at Missouri State’s Plaster Stadium, and his mother and sister heartbreakingly spoke out about his death.
‘He was always there, and he was just everything. He was a sibling I needed,’ his sister, Tahlia Pope, told KY3.
His mother, Stephanie Pope, added: ‘He wasn’t depressed, there’s no mental issues or anything like that that would make this happen, it’s just a tragic accident, and I just want people to know that you know he’s a good kid.’
A teammate who spoke at the event also said that McGee was ‘more than just a teammate. ‘He was family,’ the teammate said. ‘He brought laughter to our huddles, strength to our team, and light to our lives. His spirit will never be forgotten.’
McGee was set to graduate from Missouri State in December with a psychology degree and a minor in exercise science.
‘He wanted to help players and student-athletes with then their playing days were over… that’s why he told me he wanted to do sports psychology,’ his mother told KY3.
The senior safety was a standout player on the team and was a starter during the previous three seasons.
However, his 2024 season was cut short after suffering a season-ending injury five games in.
‘On behalf of the university and our entire department, we want to express our condolences to Todric’s family, friends and teammates,’ Missouri State director Patrick Randsdell said in a statement.
‘This tragedy has shaken our football program to the core.’
McGee’s coach, Ryan Beard, also shared a statement on social media saying: ‘As I sit and reflect on the last 24 hours, the thoughts of Todric’s infectious smile and competitive spirit are the things I see the most.
‘There is no greater honor than to be called a coach and it is something that we do not take lightly.
‘You watch young people become men right in front of your eyes and they become a part of who you are. You love these guys like your own sons.’
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