Baylor University is mourning the loss of 18-year-old defensive lineman Alex Foster, who was shot and killed early Wednesday morning in Greenville, Mississippi. The Washington County Coroner’s Office confirmed the tragic news, stating that Foster was found with multiple gunshot wounds inside a vehicle shortly after midnight. He was pronounced dead at Delta Health Center approximately 35 minutes later.

Foster, a redshirt freshman, had recently participated in spring practices with the Baylor Bears. He was a highly regarded recruit, rated as a four-star prospect by On3 and ranked as the No. 152 overall recruit in the nation. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 292 pounds, he was considered one of Mississippi's top-20 prospects coming out of St. Joseph High School in Madison.

In a joint statement, Baylor head coach Dave Aranda and athletic director Mack Rhoades expressed their heartbreak over Foster's unexpected passing. "We are heartbroken by the unexpected loss of Alex Foster, a beloved member of our football family," they said. "Our immediate focus is on supporting Alex's family and his teammates through this devastating loss. Alex's memory will forever be part of our hearts and this program."

Aranda further elaborated on social media, stating, "Alex was a beloved member of our Baylor Family, and we are devastated by this loss. In his time at Baylor, he made a long-lasting impact on all of us in the program. Our hearts are broken, and our prayers are with his family, friends, and all those who loved him so deeply."

The St. Joseph Catholic School community, where Foster graduated, also expressed their sorrow. They posted on Facebook, "We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of a young life in our community. We extend our prayers and deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Alex Foster."

John Baker, Foster's high school coach, described him as a quiet and soft-spoken individual who was determined to succeed. "He was just a great guy. Real quiet, soft-spoken guy, you know. Had his head on right and was wanting to make it out. He was a good dude, man," Baker said.

Foster had redshirted his freshman season at Baylor in 2024 and was looking forward to returning to Waco, Texas, this weekend. The Bears are set to open their 2025 season at home against Auburn on August 29.