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Brad Laird also resigned as head coach of the
FCS program in Natchitoches, La. Weston Glaser, the assistant
head coach and defensive coordinator, will serve as interim head
coach while the school launches a search for Laird's successor.
Local police said Caldwell, 21, was shot multiple times just
after 1 a.m. on Oct. 12 at an apartment complex near
Northwestern State's campus.
Northwestern State canceled its game against Nicholls that
weekend, then moved up a home game against Southeastern
Louisiana from Oct. 21 to Oct. 19 so players and staff could
attend Caldwell's wake and funeral services in Austin, Texas.
The 0-6 Demons had four games left on their schedule, including
a homecoming game against Houston Christian Nov. 4.
"Ronnie was a beloved member of our community, and we miss him
dearly," Northwestern State president Dr. Marcus Jones said in a
statement. "While our instinct was to return to the field of
play following his death, we've since learned that the hurt on
our team was too deep. Now it is in the best interest of our
players, coaches, and staff to pause and to take this time to
mourn, to heal, and to support Ronnie's family."
Laird was in his sixth season as the Demons' head coach and had
an all-time win-loss record of 16-41.
"Due to the loss of Ronnie and the emotional burden it has
caused me, I don't feel I can give my all to these players or
this program," Laird said. "Any coach will tell you that their
players become like family, so the loss of Ronnie was like
losing a son. I love this program and this university and I know
it will persevere and move forward with the competitive spirit
that is at the core of our DNA."
--Field Level Media
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