Marcus “MJ” Daniels, a defensive back for Southern Miss, tragically lost his life in a fatal shooting on Tuesday night at a Hattiesburg apartment complex, according to the coroner’s report.
Forrest County Coroner Lisa Klem confirmed that Daniels’ remains have been dispatched to a medical examiner for an autopsy to ascertain further details.
Daniels, aged 21, was a prominent cornerback for Southern Miss in the previous season, having transferred from Ole Miss. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 195 pounds, this senior athlete recorded 28 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles last season. For the 2024 season, he transitioned to the safety position and was anticipated to be a starting player.
Southern Miss coach Will Hall, alongside other university officials, promptly joined police and emergency personnel at the scene, as reported by WDAM-TV.
https://x.com/USMGoldenEagles/status/1800914294328246605
“The University of Southern Mississippi and the Department of Athletics mourn the loss of M.J. Daniels, whose life was tragically cut short on Tuesday evening during an incident off campus,” read a statement from USM. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and teammates during this period of profound grief.”
Daniels initially spent two collegiate seasons at Ole Miss before transferring to Southern Miss in 2023. Prior to his college career, he excelled at George County High School in Mississippi.