Tragedy struck Anchovy High School in St. James on Friday morning. Local news has reported that a student died while participating in a sporting event.
The student’s identity has not yet been revealed, but it is understood that the incident happened during the school’s annual cross-country event, according to the Jamaica Observer. Subsequent reports have revealed that the deceased is a male grade 7 student.
The student reportedly died after collapsing during the event. The incident, which happened around 11:00 a.m., has devastated the school. Principal Lavern Stewart expressed that she is unable to cope with what has been a “traumatic day,’ the Jamaica Gleaner reported.
She told the news outlet that she witnessed the student collapse and was taken by ambulance. The incident left her in tears. The school’s chairman, Nigel Golab, informed the news outlet that once all the information has been gathered, a press release will be sent out.
The cause of death is currently unclear as there are limited details surrounding the incident. According to the report, school officials suspended all classes and extracurricular activities following the incident.
A meeting involving the school board, faculty, and Ministry of Education and Youth representatives was held at the school regarding the crisis. The incident has raised questions about the health screenings and emergency preparedness for student-athletes, prompting calls from many for mandatory medical evaluations before participation in strenuous activities.
“It seems as if a medical report will now become mandatory for youngster before taking part in any sporting activity…R.I.P young one,” one istagram user said.
‘It should be mandatory that all kids should do a comprehensive check up b4 joining any sports,” another commented.
“Have to do proper physical on these youngsters; sometimes they have underlying health problems. This is a parent’s worst nightmare,” another user expressed.
The death of the student has been met with an outpouring of grief and concern on social media. Instagram users have left numerous heartfelt messages in response to the tragedy, with one saying, “What a horrible tragedy. My deepest condolences to the family.” Another person said, “Dear Lord, please intervene; your comfort to the family is all we ask for.”
Social media users have also expressed their hopes that this devastating occurrence will lead to a thorough review of school sports protocols, ensuring that such an incident does not happen again. “This is a wake-up call for our education system,” said one concerned parent online. “Our children’s health must be the top priority.”
