CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — A school is in mourning after the unexpected passing of a freshman basketball player.
Unioto High School held an assembly for students Wednesday morning to announce that a classmate had unexpectedly passed away after a medical issue while at home sometime late Tuesday or early Wednesday morning.
The school announced the name of the student at the assembly, but the Guardian has made the decision to withhold publishing the boy’s name and photo until his family has released his obituary to the public.
During the assembly, high school principal Nathan Caplinger asked students and staff to hold a moment of silence in the gymnasium in remembrance of the teenager. For about five minutes, students put their phones away and teachers cried as the large room went silent.
The school has activated a crisis intervention team of grief counselors to assist students and faculty in the grieving process. Classes are expected to continue as planned, however, a “one-call” will be sent to parents Wednesday afternoon to announce a previously-scheduled holiday on Monday will be observed with classes dismissed.
“Thoughts and Prayers are with our Unioto family,” read a statement posted online by Unioto Softball. “Wrap your arms around all and hold them tight. Shower those with your comfort and strength so they know they’re not alone.”
Unioto Wrestling also added their condolences on social media.
“Sending our love, prayers, and deepest condolences to our fellow teammates, students, family, and friends at the U. We are one family and our hearts are broken.”
The school has cancelled the basketball game previously scheduled for Wednesday as a result of the passing.