Mapleton High School in Ashland, Ohio, reports a 17-year-old girl died after collapsing on the football field during pregame festivities.
Breanne McKean was a senior at the school. She was also a homecoming queen candidate and the daughter of the school’s athletic director.
Mapleton High administrators reported Breanne died Friday following an undisclosed “medical emergency.”
The school district’s website noted on its Facebook page: “Mapleton staff and grief counselors were available immediately after this announcement to provide comfort and support.”
District administrators added: “A special thank you goes out to the South Central community, administration, coaches, players, and fans for their compassion and support last night. We would also like to thank our Mapleton community and surrounding school districts and communities for their continued support, encouragement, and prayers during this difficult time.”
Her father, Tim McKean, told News 5, Cleveland that his daughter died just before their team, the Mounties, were to play South Central High.
The grieving father shared with News 5 that Breanne was loved by many and was “everything to us.” A talented athlete, Breanne was a member of the school’s volleyball, basketball and softball teams.
The school reported the homecoming dance scheduled for the day after Breanne’s was postponed and all Mapleton High School sporting events and practices were temporarily canceled.
The New York Post reported that Ashland County Coroner’s Office investigator Jenny Taylor said Breanne’s body has been transported to Lucas County for a complete autopsy.
Mapleton’s volleyball team posted a simple but touching message on Facebook: “Please pray for the McKean family, our volleyball family, and the Mapleton community.”
Scroll down to leave a comment and share your thoughts.
