MAGNOLIA, Ark. – A candlelight vigil was held at Wilkins Stadium on the campus of Southern Arkansas University on Sunday night at 9 p.m. to honor and pay tribute to SAU football player Brandon Hobdy, who lost his life in an off-campus incident earlier that morning.
 
Southern Arkansas President Dr. David F. Rankin opened the vigil with heart-felt remarks followed by reassuring statements from recently-appointed SAU Chief of Police Anthony Williams and Magnolia Police Chief Glenn O. Maxwell.
 
Head football coach Bill Keopple was next to speak and he encouraged the crowd to remember Brandon in a positive light and to support one another within the athletic teams and the University. SAU Director of Athletics Steve Browning followed Coach Keopple, and Browning reiterated to the crowd of the available services on campus for anyone in need during this difficult time.
 
Following Browning, Deandre Jenkins, one of Hobdy's classmates and teammates, spoke and delivered an emotional address to those in attendance.
 
A prayer and a moment of silence for Hobdy then took place with the illuminating light of candles providing the only light source at the football stadium.