(CNN) — An assistant football coach for Missouri Southern State University was fatally shot in the parking lot of a movie theater in Joplin, Mo., according to police.
Authorities said they responded to reports of shots fired at the Regal Northstar Stadium 14 at around 9:50 p.m. Friday. Derek Moore, 37, was taken to the hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
A suspect identified as Jeffery Bruner, 39, was taken into custody and has since been charged with murder and armed criminal action.
Authorities said they don’t believe Moore’s death was a random act. On Sunday, KY3 in Springfield, Mo., reported that police suspected the two had “some type of relationship,” although details are unclear.
“Derek was new to Missouri Southern but he was embraced by our campus and community,” said Head Football Coach Daryl Daye in a statement released by the university. “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.”
Moore was in his first year with MSSU as offensive line coach, according to the university, which also said he had coached a total of 14 college football seasons in his career.
“We are stunned and deeply saddened by this tragic incident, and our prayers are with Derek’s family,” said MSSU Interim President Alan Marble, in a statement released by the university. “We are ensuring that our employees and students have the emotional support they need during this difficult time.”
All MSSU homecoming festivities for this weekend have been canceled, and a candlelight vigil has been planned for Monday night on campus.
Moore leaves behind a 7-year-old son, according to the university.
By Amanda Sloane/HLNtv.com
