The Marshall University football program released a statement after defensive lineman Larry Aaron III died Thursday. Aaron succumbed to complications from a gunshot wound suffered on New Year's Eve, Grant Traylor of the Herald-Dispatch reports.

"Marshall University lost a very special young man today and it has shocked and saddened us all," head coach Doc Holliday said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Larry Aaron's family and friends, many of whom were his fellow Thundering Herd teammates. His loss will be felt in every corner of our program and his spirit will never be forgotten."

Aaron was left paralyzed when he was struck in the back by a stray bullet after a shootout at a New Year's Eve party in Severn, Md.