Former Bulldog wide receiver Chris Smith shot, killed

Former Mississippi State wide receiver Chris Smith was shot and killed in Meridian on Friday night, coach Dan Mullen confirmed to The Clarion-Ledger. Meridian police chief Benny Dubose said the incident occurred at Frank Berry Courts on 8th Street, according to WTOK. Dubose didn't immediately return a call asking for confirmation.

Smith was 26 years old.

“We are shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Chris,” said coach Dan Mullen in a statement. “Our entire Mississippi State family mourns his loss. Chris was an important part of our first recruiting class and helped set the foundation for our success. He was a terrific teammate and his work ethic was impeccable.

"He earned his way onto the field as a true freshman in 2009 and later received his degree from Mississippi State. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of his family and friends.”

Smith played in 48 games for Mississippi State from 2009-12. He caught 109 passes for 1,180 yards and five touchdowns. His 109 receptions rank 10th in MSU career history. As a junior in 2011, he led the Bulldogs with 35 catches for 330 yards and two scores. He followed that up with 47 catches for 564 yards and two touchdowns as a senior.

At Meridian High School, Smith won the 2008 Class 5A state championship.

Current and former Bulldogs took to Twitter on Saturday to remember Smith.

Contact Michael Bonner at mbonner@jackson.gannett.com. Follow @MikeBBonner on Twitter.