Rugby
Baylor Football Player Alex Foster, 18, Dies in Mississippi Shooting Amid Citywide Violence Surge
The tragic death of rising defensive lineman Alex Foster has shocked the Baylor community and prompted Greenville officials to enforce a citywide curfew to address escalating violence.
Greenville, Mississippi — Baylor University is mourning the tragic loss of 18-year-old defensive lineman Alex Foster, who was fatally shot early Wednesday morning in his hometown of Greenville. Foster was found with multiple gunshot wounds inside a vehicle shortly after midnight and was later pronounced dead at Delta Health Center.
The Greenville Police Department responded to reports of gunfire around 12:11 a.m. on May 28 in a mixed residential-commercial area. Foster, who had returned home for summer break, was discovered gravely wounded and succumbed to his injuries within the hour. The investigation remains ongoing, and no arrests have yet been made.
Foster was a promising young athlete — a 6-foot-5, 292-pound lineman who had redshirted his freshman year at Baylor and was set to begin his sophomore season. A three-star recruit from St. Joseph Catholic School, he was ranked among Mississippi’s top prospects and had received offers from several major college football programs before signing with Baylor in 2023.
“We are heartbroken by the unexpected loss of Alex Foster, a beloved teammate, friend, and a cherished part of the Baylor Family,” read a joint statement from Baylor athletic director Mack Rhoades and head football coach Dave Aranda. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Alex’s family and all those who loved him.”
Coach Aranda later posted a separate tribute calling Foster a “beloved member” of the team who made a “long-lasting impact” in his short time with the program.
In response to Foster’s death and a broader spike in gun violence, Greenville Mayor Errick D. Simmons announced a citywide curfew from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.. This measure includes stricter rules for nightclubs and late-night establishments, with the mayor emphasizing the importance of juvenile safety and parental accountability.
“This curfew is about protecting the lives and well-being of every Greenville resident,” Simmons stated. “We cannot stand by and let violence rip through our neighborhoods. Enough is enough.”
Foster’s high school coach, John Baker, remembered him as a quiet, determined, and grounded young man. “He was just a great guy. Had his head on right and was wanting to make it out,” Baker said. “He was a good dude, man.”
As the Baylor community continues to process this devastating loss, Foster’s memory remains etched in the hearts of teammates, coaches, and friends — not just for his talent, but for his spirit and dreams that were tragically cut short.