A Statement Regarding A Student-Athlete From MSU's Death

Here is a TARKVILLE - Samuel Westmoreland, a freshman student-athlete from Tupelo, Mississippi, passed away this morning, and Mississippi State University was shocked to learn of his passing. Westmoreland, an industrial technology major and product of Tupelo High School, played offensive guard for the MSU Bulldog football team. On Friday, he was supposed to turn 19.

As president of this outstanding university, Mark E. Keenum stated, "One of the most profound truths I've learned is that the sad loss of one of our students lowers all of our students—and all of us at Mississippi State feel the effect of Sam Westmoreland's death." "During this most trying time, my thoughts and prayers are with Sam's family and friends, his MSU teammates and coaches, and the Tupelo community."

Mike Leach, head football coach at MSU, said: "The untimely passing of Sam Westmoreland has devastated the Mississippi State Athletics Family. Sam was a cherished brother, son, and teammate who had a bright future ahead of him. Everyone who knew and loved him will always remember him and be very saddened by his absence. The whole MSU community is in mourning, and we send the Westmoreland family our best wishes. Supporting the Westmoreland family and our student-athletes during this trying time is our top concern."

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