Southern Mississippi defensive back MJ Daniels lost his life in a shooting in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, on June 11.
Daniels was 21.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of MJ Daniels. His smile was infectious and lit up the room. Please keep MJ’s loved ones and our Southern Miss family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. https://t.co/eZ0w92mpEi
— Will Hall (@Coach_Hall7) June 12, 2024
Daniels started for the Golden Eagles in 2023. He transferred to Southern Miss after playing for Ole Miss in 2021 and ’22.
“The University of Southern Mississippi and the Department of Athletics mourn the loss of M.J. Daniels whose life was lost Tuesday evening during an incident that occurred off campus,” Southern Miss said in a statement. “We send our sincere condolences to his family, friends and teammates during this difficult time.”
Authorities are looking for information on the fatal shooting/
“We are asking the community for their help and to come forward with any information pertaining to this tragic incident and the untimely death of Marcus Daniels,” a Hattiesburg Police statement said. “We will share as much information as possible without jeopardizing the investigation. We are working closely with the university and local officials.”
Our hearts are broken over the sudden passing of MJ Daniels.
Please keep the Daniels family in your thoughts and prayers during this time. pic.twitter.com/bZ790MyAsr
— Ole Miss Football (@OleMissFB) June 12, 2024
“He loved life, always had a smile on his face, always fun to be around, loved football dearly,” George County High School head coach James Ray told the Sun Herald.
“It breaks my heart to hear of this. Great guy, great teammate, great football player, and will be dearly missed. I love this guy.
“He would come to my house and hang out, even when he was at Ole Miss and even when he was at Southern. Just devastated and heartbroken about what we heard today.”