'Immense loss': High school football player dies from heat stroke
Joshua Henderson, 16, died on Saturday due to "complications from organ failure caused by a severe heat stroke," despite "bravely fighting for his life in the hospital," his family noted in their GoFundMe.
His aunt, Kristen Henderson, told ABC News that he was hospitalized on July 6, when he passed out at football practice.
Shortly after dropping Henderson off at practice, his mother received a call to say he was unresponsive, according to his aunt. When she got there, he was rushed to the hospital, his aunt said.
Henderson, who was a student and football player for Bolton High School in Arlington, Tennessee, was described as as an "exceptional athlete and dedicated scholar," Memphis Shelby County Schools said in a statement on Monday.
MORE: Heat stroke vs. heat exhaustion: Safety tips as dangerous temperatures hit US
"His kindness, determination and positive spirit left a lasting impression on classmates, teachers and our entire BHS community," school officials said. "We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and all those grieving this immense loss."
He was "deeply loved by his parents, siblings, extended family and all who knew him," his family noted in a statement.
"His sudden loss has left our hearts shattered and our world forever changed. Joshua's life, though short, was meaningful and full of light," the family said.
Kristen Henderson, who described her nephew as a "gentle giant," said he had been playing offensive and defense line on the football team and was being scouted by different universities "because he was so good."
MORE: Heat indices could hit 120 as sweltering temperatures grip eastern half of US
Henderson, who was about to be a senior in high school this fall, wanted to attend the University of Florida on a football scholarship and pursue a degree in engineering, his aunt said.
School officials said grief counselors and support staff will be available at the high school "in the coming days for any student or staff member who needs them."
Extreme heat is the deadliest weather-related hazard in the U.S., claiming roughly 2,000 people annually, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The latest CDC statistics show that 150 heat-related deaths have already occurred in the United States in 2025.
For tips on how to stay safe in a heat wave, click here.
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