A 14-year-old high school student died last week after she collapsed on the court during a basketball game.
Amari Crite, a freshman at Momence High School, was playing a junior varsity basketball game against Tri-Point when she fell and later died.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of our 9th-grade students on January 25, 2024,” Momence Superintendent Shannon Anderson said in a statement. “Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends affected by this tragic loss.”
According to reports, the Kankakee County Coroner’s Office said the cause of death is under investigation.
“Our primary focus right now is on supporting one another and providing the necessary resources for our community to cope with this loss. We ask for your understanding and cooperation in this matter,” Anderson added.
Crite’s mother started a GoFundMe to help cover the costs of her daughter’s sudden and tragic death.
“We are asking for any and everyone to help us give her the proper home going she deserves,” the page states. “No amount (too) small, no amount (too) big. And most of all we need prayer! Services will be shared when everything is arranged.”
