A devastating event occurred at Mapleton High School in Ohio last Friday, as a senior student and homecoming queen nominee, Breanne “Bre” McKean, collapsed and passed away during the pre-game homecoming festivities. McKean’s sudden death on the football field, just before the game’s commencement, was confirmed by the Mapleton Local School District to be the result of a medical emergency.
Superintendent Scott Smith expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, extending his condolences toean’s family and the entire Mapleton community. He emphasized that the school district’s thoughts and prayers were with them during this challenging period.
McKean was a well-known figure in her school, being one of the three students nominated for Senior Queen at this year’s homecoming celebrations. She was also a dedicated athlete, playing as a middle hitter for the Mapleton volleyball team this season. In addition, she was a part of the girls’ high school basketball team during her first three years at Mapleton.
Despite the tragic event, the homecoming football game against South Central High School proceeded until half time. It was at this point that the decision was made to suspend the game. Mapleton football coach Matt Stafford explained that he and the referee chose to break the news to the students immediately, as they anticipated the news would reach them through other means.
Stafford stressed the need for unity and support in such difficult times, encouraging students to come together as a family, a football family, a community, and a district to comfort and support each other.
In response to the tragedy, the school district made staff and grief counselors available to students. Superintendent Smith expressed his appreciation to the South Central community, administration, coaches, players, and fans for their compassion and support. He also thanked the Mapleton community and surrounding school districts for their ongoing encouragement and prayers.
Out of respect for the tragic event, the homecoming dance scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 30 was canceled, and all Mapleton athletic events were postponed until Wednesday.