Mississippi native and All-American running back Ahmad Hardy is on the road to recovery after being shot in his home state.
In a 14-second video posted by the official University of Missouri’s football account, Hardy told fans and supporters that he had started rehabilitation efforts with the goal of competing during the upcoming season. Hardy was on the wrong side of gunfire that rang out in what police described as a “melee” at an outdoor concert at a biker bar in Laurel on May 10.
The Oma native was struck in the upper leg and transported to a local hospital, where he underwent surgery. After being discharged from medical care, he returned to Missouri to begin his rehab process. Tiger head coach Eliah Drinkwitz has confirmed that Hardy has been walking and going through physical therapy.
“I’m starting the road to my rehab,” Hardy said. “I want to thank everybody for all the support and all of your prayers. I thank everybody for everything, and I’m back on the road to success.”
A message from @Ahmadhardy29 to Tiger fans as he attacks his rehab in Columbia! pic.twitter.com/lWSednZfJ1
— Mizzou Football (@MizzouFootball) May 20, 2026
Hardy spent his high school years at Lawrence County and transferred from Louisiana Monroe to Missouri ahead of the 2025 season. He was second among FBS players with 1,639 rushing yards, adding 16 touchdowns, and was lauded as an All-SEC first team member.
As for the shooting suspect, 20-year-old Rashodrick Harris was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated assault. Law enforcement officials took Harris into custody after first questioning a trio of 19-year-olds believed to have been at the crime scene.
