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Southern Miss defensive back MJ Daniels died in a shooting Tuesday night in Hattiesburg, Miss. He was 21.

Officials said the shooting occurred at an off-campus apartment complex. No other details were immediately available.

Daniels played for Southern Miss in 2023 after transferring from Ole Miss. He intercepted three passes, forced two fumbles and recorded 28 tackles in 12 games last season.

“His smile was infectious and lit up the room,” Golden Eagles head coach Will Hall posted Wednesday on X. “Please keep MJ’s loved ones and our Southern Miss family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Daniels was a native of Lucedale, Miss. The 6-foot-2, 195-pound senior moved from cornerback to safety for the upcoming 2024 season and was expected to be a starter.

Southern Miss released a statement.

“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. We send our sincere condolences to his family, friends and teammates during this difficult time.”

–Field Level Media