MSSU Head Coach: This is an unspeakable loss for the MSSU athletics family

(From Southern News Service)

Missouri Southern State University is mourning the loss of Assistant Football Coach Derek Moore.

Coach Moore passed away from injuries received last night in a shooting outside a local movie theatre.

Moore, 37, was in his first year with the Lions as offensive line coach. Coach Moore came to MSSU this year after coaching for three seasons at Western Illinois University. He had coached collegiate football for a total of 14 seasons.

He leaves behind a 7-year-old son.

"We are stunned and deeply saddened by this tragic incident, and our prayers are with Derek's family," said MSSU Interim President Alan Marble. "We are ensuring that our employees and students have the emotional support they need during this difficult time."

"Derek was new to Missouri Southern but he was embraced by our campus and community," said Head Football Coach Daryl Daye. "He was a very likeable person who always had a smile on his face and made friends easily with our staff and players. This is an unspeakable loss for the MSSU athletics family."

Festivities for Homecoming were canceled in the wake of the tragedy and the game has been postponed.

Grief counselors are available to students and employees.

"The Missouri Southern athletics community is deeply saddened by the events that have occurred," said Athletics Director Jared Bruggeman. "In times like this, our priority is to make sure we are there for our student-athletes, coaches and support staff in whatever way necessary."

Plans are being made for a candlelight vigil Monday on the MSSU campus.