A Texas community is mourning the loss of 15-year-old Preston Malone, a sophomore at Lancaster Early College High School, who died after a medical emergency during football practice. On August 18, Malone began feeling unwell during junior varsity practice and told a coach. “The coach immediately noticed that Malone was not sweating,” district spokesperson Kimberly Simpson said. Staff quickly called 911 and placed him in a cold tub before paramedics rushed him to the hospital.
While there was initial hope, his condition worsened overnight, and he passed away on August 20. “His last words were, ‘Hey, I’m sorry I was unable to finish the workout,’ which speaks to the type of kid Preston was,” Superintendent A. Katrise Perera Simpson said at a news conference. The practice was held indoors due to 104-degree heat.
The facility lacked central air but had open garage doors and fans for ventilation. Officials emphasized that all safety protocols were followed, including hydration stations and on-site trainers. Former coaches remembered Preston as determined and hardworking.
“He wasn’t the biggest kid, so he always had to fight,” said Coach Marcus Badger. Lancaster ISD issued condolences, calling Malone “a proud member of the Lancaster Junior Varsity Football team” whose perseverance left a lasting impact.