Sam Westmoreland Cause of Death Mysterious: MSU Football Player Dies Unexpectedly at 19

Mississippi State football team member Sam Westmoreland "suddenly" died this week, the university confirmed.

Westmoreland, a 19-year-old Tupelo native (Clarion Ledger reported he was 18), was reportedly found dead outside the Blackjack Missionary Baptist Church. The location is around four miles away from MSU's campus.

Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Office's Capt. Brett Watson disclosed that officials responded to the scene after receiving a call around 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday. Upon arrival at the scene, they found the lifeless Westmoreland.

According to Yahoo! Sports, Mississippi State started cooperating with the local authorities and the athletic department to find out more details about Sam Westmoreland's death.

They, however, clarified that no foul play was involved in his death.

The university refused to comment on the case until a development happened in the assessment. Meanwhile, MSU head coach Mike Leach issued a heartfelt message to express the shock of the athletics family Westmoreland left earlier than expected.

"The Mississippi State Athletics family is heartbroken by the sudden death of Sam Westmoreland. Sam was a beloved son, brother and teammate, and a tremendous young man with a limitless future. He will always be remembered and deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him," he said.

Mississippi State president Mark Keenum also took his time to mention how losing a student "diminishes all the students." He sent his condolences to the late athlete's family, friends, and MSU teammates.

Sam Westmoreland Receives Unmatched Love, Respect After His Death

More people paid tribute to him online, honoring Westmoreland and showing their regret after he died unexpectedly.

RIP Sam Westmoreland 😔

Y’all please keep Sam’s family, friends, and the entire @SSN_MissState community in y’all’s prayers during this tragic time.
— Sidelines - Ole Miss (@SSN_OleMiss) October 19, 2022

Westmoreland was a freshman from Tupelo, Mississippi, who was studying industrial technology at Mississippi State. He started playing football during his time at Tupelo High School.

According to ESPN, he joined the Bulldog team after his flourishing career at Tupelo High. His skills also helped him earn a spot in the Northeast Mississippi Football Coaches Association All-Star Game last year.

Westmoreland notably scored Region 2-6A second-team honors following his graduation from high school.

His family is yet to release a statement regarding his death. They also have not shared details about his funeral and memorial, and whether they would open a public viewing to allow his friends and colleagues to see him one last time.