A Connecticut high school student and football player tragically died following a practice Tuesday afternoon, school officials said.
In a press release, Windsor High School Superintendent Dr. Terrell Hill confirms the sudden death of 15-year-old student Elijah-Jay Mariano Rivera.
“I am deeply saddened to confirm the passing of one of our beloved Windsor High School students, Elijah-Jay Mariano Rivera,” Dr. Hill wrote in a press release. “During this difficult time, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends who are grappling with this unthinkable loss.”
Elijah-Jay Mariano-Rivera, 15, was doing ‘light exercises’ when he collapsed (Google Maps)
FOX 61 said Windsor Mayor Donald Trinks said Rivera was “performing light exercises when he suddenly collapsed.” The coaching staff immediately began administering CPR and the 15-year-old was transported to Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.
Despite the efforts made, the young student-athlete was pronounced dead at the hospital.
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“He collapsed and staff were on scene, trainers immediately administered CPR to him,” Trinks told the Hartford Courant. “The ambulance arrived and took him to Connecticut Children’s, where unfortunately he passed away.
“A 15-year-old kid playing a sport he loves… there’s no way you can rationalize that.”
A 15-year-old kid playing a sport he loves… there’s no way you can rationalize that.
Windsor High School encouraged students and parents to seek professional help and resources from the school district.
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“Counselors will be available for any student who may need or want help or any type of assistance regarding this loss,” Dr. Hill said. “We encourage parents and students to access these resources as needed.”
Rivera’s cause of death remained unknown Wednesday evening.
At a vigil Tuesday evening, teammates gathered to remember the “great, genuine guy.”
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“He was a great guy, an uplifting guy. Every time you see him, he just has a smile on his face. He loved being there and just loved the community. He was a great, genuine guy,” said teammate Chase Royal told WFSB.
Windsor High School did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.