A few minutes into the second quarter of the Monrovia (Ind.) High School girls’ basketball game on Friday night, an official collapsed on the court. He was unable to be revived and declared dead at the scene.
According to WTHR, an AED was brought to the official, Jeff Tamarri, and applied within one minute. Emergency responders were called and arrived to Monrovia promptly, but neither measure could save the official.
While emergency care was provided, the gymnasium was evacuated and the game suspended. The boys’ basketball game, which was scheduled to be played following the girls’ game that same evening, was postponed.
“I would like to thank all of the first responders that helped during this very tumultuous time. There were people with medical training that came out of the crowd and immediately delivered medical attention. 911 was called and the paramedics arrived within minutes. I would like to also thank Jon Regashus, Josh Flynn, Perry McCubbins, and Brandy Crum. Brandy retrieved the AED and helped deliver medical aid. Jon, Josh, and Perry helped clear the gym and remove distractions so the medical professionals could concentrate. I was very proud of how well this situation was handled, under the circumstances,” said Monroe-Gregg School superintendent, Trent Provo.
Tamarri was a member of United Umpires in Indianapolis, and a fellow official told Stateline Sports Network, “Jeff was more than an outstanding official who graced countless games across many sports; he was a mentor, a friend, and a guiding light to young athletes, coaches, and fellow umpires alike.”
First responders have not released a cause of death for Tamarri. Monrovia schools have made counselors available for any students or staff who would like to speak about the incident.
