ROME, Ga. — A North Georgia teenager has died after his family says he collapsed while playing soccer.
Bairon Candido Ramos Vicente, 16, was an 11th-grade student at Rome High School.
His family says he collapsed on Friday while on the field with his teammates and never woke back up.
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Rome City Schools confirmed to Channel 2 Action News that his death happened off school grounds and was not related to Rome High School.
“Rome City Schools is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a Rome High School student,” they said in a statement. “Our thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences are with the student’s family, friends, and loved ones.”
Family says the 16-year-old died doing what he loved.
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“He never really was the type to talk much, but he always managed to put a smile on everyone’s face, and he will be forever missed,” they wrote in an online fundraiser.
They have started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money to cover hospital and funeral expenses.
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