MOMENCE, Ill. (Gray News) – A girls high school basketball player reportedly collapsed and died this week in Illinois.
According to multiple reports, 14-year-old Amari Crite died on Thursday after collapsing on the court while playing a home game at Momence High School.
The Daily Journal reports that Momence School District Superintendent Shannon Anderson issued the following statement that read in part:
“We are deeply saddened to confirm the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of our 9th-grade students on January 25, 2024. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends affected by this tragic loss.
“Our primary focus right now is on supporting one another and providing the necessary resources for our community to cope with this loss.”
Amari’s family has created a GoFundMe to help them during this difficult time.
“Our precious baby girl passed away last night January 25 when she collapsed at her basketball game. We are asking for any and everyone to help us give her the proper homegoing she deserves,” organizer Michelle Crite wrote.
According to school officials, grief counselors were at Momence High School on Friday to help students deal with the loss of their classmate.
The Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office also shared their condolences.
“The Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office stands with the Momence School District during this difficult time. Friends, family and classmates are all in our prayers,” the sheriff’s office wrote online.
