Student Dies After Playing Basketball At School In Fredericksburg

FREDERICKSBURG, VA—A student at James Monroe High School collapsed and later died Monday after playing basketball in the school gymnasium, according to a letter sent to parents by school principal Taneshia H. Rachal.

"This loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions for our entire school, especially our students," Rachal said in the letter. ". . .At our school, we have counselors available for any student who may need or want help or any type of assistance surrounding this loss. We encourage you, as parents, to also feel free to use our resources."

Students in the school at 2300 Washington Avenue gathered in the commons area Tuesday for 15 minutes of silence in memory of the sophomore, according to the Free Lance-Star. Rachal told the newspaper that after the student collapsed, school personnel, including the school nurse responded immediately. He then was taken to Mary Washington Hospital, where he died.

The student's name is being withheld at the request of the family.