Northwestern State University student Ronald Caldwell found dead at his off-campus apartment complex

The Natchitoches Police Department is conducting an inquiry into a homicide that occurred at approximately 1:08 a.m. on Thursday morning (October 12) in the 3800 block of University Parkway.

Upon receiving reports of gunshots in the vicinity, NPD promptly arrived at the scene. There, they discovered the victim, Ronald Caldwell, 21, hailing from Manor, Texas, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds.

Unfortunately, he was declared deceased by the coroner’s office due to the severity of his injuries. Dr. Marcus D. Jones, President of NSU, issued the following statement:

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of one of our current students, Ronnie Caldwell Jr. Ronnie was a talented junior business administration major from Austin, Texas. Ronnie’s dedication to the community was truly inspiring, as evidenced by him spending the summer coaching a local youth baseball team, teaching those children the values of competition and sportsmanship.

During these difficult times, I extend my deepest condolences and offer my prayers to Ronnie’s family and friends. The entire NSU community shares in your grief and sorrow. Counseling and support services are available to all students, faculty, and staff who may need them.

While we mourn the loss of Ronnie, let us also honor and celebrate his life. Ronnie will forever be cherished as a beloved member of the NSU family.

The football match between Northwestern State University and Nicholls State scheduled for this weekend has been called off.

The investigation is still in progress, and the Natchitoches Police Department will provide further information as it becomes accessible.