Jackson County Coroner Vicki Broadus has confirmed that Pascagoula High School student and football player Caleb Sweeten was killed in a water skiing accident on Sunday afternoon, while Panthers teammate Brandon Rich remains missing.

The accident occurred about 3:30 p.m. on the Pascagoula River, just north of the U.S. 90 bridge, Jackson County sheriff Mike Byrd said.

"They were boogie boarding and one fell off and the other went in the water," Byrd said. "The current is strong and sucked them under a barge that was stationary on the river."

Pascagoula football coach Lewis Sims said the team and friends were gathering at the Aaron Jones Family Interactive Center across from the high school on Sunday evening. The school is set to begin state testing on Monday, with graduation on May 23.

Rich, a senior, was a three-year starter at defensive back for the Panthers in football. He overcame a heart ailment during his junior year to earn all-state honors as a senior, and was set to play at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College in the fall.

Rich was also a standout in basketball, starting two seasons at forward. He helped the Panthers to three straight state semifinal appearances.

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Caleb Sweeten

Sweeten, a sophomore, was also a major contributor to the Panthers' 5A South State football championship last fall. He was a part-time starter at linebacker, and was expected to be a starter next season.

Sims sent the following message to members of the Pascagoula football group on Hudl, a high school football video and information-sharing service:

"Men, this is a time we are called upon to be strong in a time when things are not looking very good. This afternoon, two of our own were in an accident. Details have not been released, but keep Panther Nation in your prayers and especially those of the families involved. ... We love you all. Be there for your brothers."

A flood warning for the Pascagoula River has been extended until Thursday morning in the wake of last week's torrential rains, according to the National Weather Service forecast.

On Sunday, the river was at 22.3 feet at Merrill and it is forecast to crest later this week at 22.5 feet. Flood stage is 22 feet, so minor flooding is occuring and currents are stronger than usual.