A 14-year-old boy from Florida has died after suffering sudden cardiac arrest during a school-organized 5K run. The teenager collapsed shortly after completing the race, which was part of his school’s JROTC program.
Emergency services were called, and he was taken to hospital, where doctors tried to save his life. Despite their efforts, he was later pronounced dead. The news deeply shocked students, staff, and families in the local school community.
School leaders shared messages of sympathy and said the loss has been devastating. Counselors were made available to students and staff to help them cope during this difficult time. Many described the boy as kind, active, and well respected by those who knew him.
Family friends said he was involved in school activities, community volunteering, and church life. A fundraiser was created to support his family as they deal with both emotional and financial strain following the sudden tragedy.
Doctors explain that cardiac arrest is a sudden failure of the heart’s electrical system. It can happen without warning and is often fatal if help is not immediate. While rare in young people, it can occur during physical activity, highlighting the importance of heart awareness and rapid emergency response.