Tragic Passing of Former Sam Houston State Player William Davis

William Davis, a former football player at Sam Houston State, passed away on Saturday at just 22 years old. He sustained a gunshot wound to the chest, although details about the circumstances surrounding his death are still emerging.

The Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has yet to determine whether his death will be classified as a homicide, according to reports. Initially, the university did not specify the cause when they announced his passing.

In a heartfelt statement, Coach Phil Longo expressed the university’s sorrow. He noted, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Will Davis… Will was a cherished member of the Bearcat community, bringing joy and positivity to all those around him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this incredibly tough time.”

Davis was a safety from South Boston, Virginia, and had previously played at West Virginia and Division II Virginia Union before transferring to Sam Houston State just before spring practice.

According to his bio from West Virginia, Davis participated in 36 games, starting in 20 of them during his time at Virginia Union. He had only appeared in one game with the Mountaineers before his transfer.

In a message posted on Instagram earlier this year, Davis shared how he felt at home when he first visited Sam Houston State. “It was essential for me to play in a place where I could comfortably connect to the culture, especially being far from home in Virginia,” he mentioned.

The football team plans to honor Davis throughout their upcoming season. Bobby Williams, the Director of Athletics at Sam Houston State, also expressed condolences, stating, “Losing someone so young, who had so much life ahead, is difficult. Our deepest sympathies go to Will’s family and everyone he influenced.”