A running back from William Jewell College in Liberty, Mo., has died following a medical emergency on the sidelines of the team's season opener against Fort Lewis College.
According to the local Fox affiliate, the game, which was being played at William Jewell College's Greene Stadium, was suspended, with a vigil in memory of the late junior running back scheduled for Saturday evening.
"William Jewell & the Liberty community mourn the passing of junior MicahJo Barnett," the school's athletic department posted on social media. "Our thoughts & prayers are with MicahJo’s family, teammates, friends, & coaches. A vigil will be held tonight on the Jewell quad at 8 p.m. in honor of MicahJo & family."
William Jewell interim president Dr. Drew Van Horn thanked first responders for the efforts to save Barnett, who was pursuing a business major at the small division II liberal arts college.
"We appreciate the response from the sheriff’s office, the police department, EMS team, physician for the team, everybody responded so quickly, so well," Dr. Van Horn told Fox 4 KC. "Our hearts are heavy and we just appreciate all the support that we have received from the greater community."
Barnett had scored a touchdown earlier in the game, not long before his death.
