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The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Virginia confirmed that 22-year-old college football player William Davis died from gunshot wounds to the chest.
Authorities have not yet determined the manner of his death, and officials state that the final classification remains pending.
William Davis passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2026, while visiting his home state of Virginia for the summer.
Davis was preparing to enter his seventh season of college football after built a reputation as a resilient defensive back.
He spent the first three seasons of his collegiate career playing 36 games for Virginia Union University, a Historically Black University (HBCU).
He later transferred to West Virginia University, where he appeared in one game for the Mountaineers during the 2025 season.
In January 2026, Davis entered the transfer portal again and committed to Sam Houston State University (SHSU) in Texas.
He moved to the campus in Huntsville and successfully completed spring practices with the Bearkats football team before returning home for the summer break.
Sam Houston State University head coach Phil Longo expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Davis as an upbeat, positive, and passionate young man.
The university announced plans to honor Davis during the upcoming 2026 football season, though the athletic department has not finalized the specific details of the tribute.
Former coaches and teammates from Virginia Union and West Virginia also shared their condolences online, remembering him as a beloved member of their respective sports families.
As the medical examiner's office continues its investigation, local police have not released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Investigators have not stated whether they are treating the incident as a homicide or an accident. The family has requested privacy as they grieve the sudden loss of the young athlete.
