Baylor Football Mourns Loss of Defensive Lineman Alex Foster After Fatal Shooting in Mississippi

GREENVILLE, Miss. — Baylor University is mourning the tragic loss of 18-year-old defensive lineman Alex Foster, who died early Wednesday morning following a shooting in his hometown of Greenville, Mississippi, according to the Washington County Coroner’s Office.

Foster, a promising young athlete, redshirted the 2024 football season and had recently completed spring practice with the Baylor Bears. His untimely death comes as a shock to the Baylor community and those who knew him in Greenville, where he was remembered not just for his athletic talent, but for his character and determination.

According to the Greenville Police Department, officers responded to a report of a shooting around 12:11 a.m. Wednesday. Upon arrival, they discovered a male victim — later confirmed to be Foster — inside a vehicle suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead approximately 30 minutes later.

As of now, no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains active. Greenville Police have not yet released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

In a joint statement issued Wednesday, Baylor head football coach Dave Aranda and athletic director Mack Rhoades expressed their grief and offered support to Foster’s loved ones:

“We are heartbroken by the unexpected loss of Alex Foster, a beloved member of our football family. Our deepest condolences are with Alex’s family and all who loved him, as we lift them up in prayer now and in the days to come. Alex’s memory will forever be part of our hearts and this program.”

Foster’s potential on the field was matched by the strong relationships he built off it. Coaches and teammates alike described him as respectful, hardworking, and deeply passionate about football. Though he had not yet taken the field in an official game for Baylor, his impact on the team and his presence within the program were deeply felt.

The Baylor athletic department has pledged to support Foster’s family, teammates, and the broader student community in the wake of the tragedy.

As investigators continue to search for answers, those who knew Alex Foster are left to grieve the loss of a life full of promise, taken far too soon.

Anyone with information regarding the shooting is encouraged to contact the Greenville Police Department as the search for answers continues.