With the current football season underway for the Renegades, the team received some unfortunate news about a former player prior to it.
Brandon Hobdy, 23, a Southern Arkansas University student-athlete by way of Bakersfield College, was shot and killed in an off-campus shooting on Aug. 24.
The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office dispatched deputies to the Veteran’s of Foreign Wars where an alleged fight broke out which led to shots being fired.
News about the incident quickly broke out in Bakersfield throughout that day and the following week.
BC wide receiver coach Brent Paul, who coached Hobdy from 2010-2011, was deeply saddened by the loss of a player of his.
“That Sunday morning, I received a text from a former player, George Robbins, while I was at church,” said Paul. “We closed prayer and reflected back on the loss.”
Paul and Hobdy spent a lot of time together, both on and off the football field.
“He was a unique, sharp and quiet individual who would show up, listen and work hard. We even went out for dinner a few times to talk about life in general. It’s upsetting to see what has happened,” Paul reflected.
Hobdy transferred to SAU last season, posting nine catches for 108 yards in his first season with the Muleriders. He was also projected to be a big part of the offense heading into his senior season.
Police reports have identified two suspects, Byron Lavell Dunn, 20, of Magnolia, Arkansa and Timothy Johnson, 23, of Camden, Arkansas in connection to the shooting. Both men had nothing to say and are each going to be held on a $1 million bail. However, the investigation is still ongoing.
A candlelight vigil took place the same evening, Aug. 24, at the SAU football field to unite the community and pay respect toward both Hobdy and Wayne.
A memorial account has been set up for Hobdy – The Brandon Hobdy Memorial Fund.
Those looking to support Hobdy and his family through this difficult time may send donations to Farmers Bank and Trust of Magnolia by calling at 870-235-7000.