The cause of death for a Kansas City teenager who died days after high school football practice has been revealed.
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On Thursday, October 17, a medical examiner in Johnson County, Kansas, confirmed that Ovet Gomez Regalado passed away due to heatstroke, per ABC News.
The 15-year-old collapsed while walking toward Northwest High School after completing a 15-minute exercise session. He tragically passed away two days later, on August 14.
The medical examiner’s report indicated that the temperature on the day of Regalado’s death reached 92°F, with rising humidity exacerbating the heat. The report also highlighted that obesity contributed to the teen’s death, noting his weight of 384 lbs. and the presence of the sickle cell trait.
First Responders Employed Ice in an Attempt to Stabilize the Teen
Initially, ice bags were employed to lower his body temperature after his collapse. However, when EMS officials arrived at the scene, Regalado’s temperature was recorded at a staggering 104.6° F, according to the medical examiner’s report per ABC News.
Following that, the report indicated that additional ice was applied, reducing his temperature by only two degrees to 102°F. Regalado was then transported to a nearby hospital, where he ultimately suffered multisystem organ failure and passed away two days later.
During the medical examiner’s investigation, the Shawnee Police Department also conducted an inquiry into Regalado’s death. According to Emily Rittman, the city’s public safety information officer, the investigation has concluded. The case was closed after determining that no further action was necessary by the police.
The Community Mourns the Loss of the 15-Year-Old Boy Who Died Following Football Practice
In the wake of Regalado’s passing, Shawnee High School Principal Lisa Gruman addressed the tragedy in a letter to parents, per the Kansas City Star.
“Ovet was such a warm and wonderful student that touched the hearts of so many in our community,” Gruman wrote.
“Your child will hear many different things, but please encourage them not to make guesses and spread rumors,” she added. “The family will need privacy as they struggle to handle their grief. The administration is asking everyone to respect that privacy.”
Meanwhile, the school district released a statement following the medical examiner’s report.
“For all those who knew and loved Ovet, this report reopens the painful wounds that came as a result of his premature death,” the school district told ABC News. “His absence is deeply felt in the Northwest community. Nowhere more profoundly than by his family, including his brother, who continues to attend Northwest,” the statement added.
A GoFundMe campaign is going on behalf of Ovet Gomez Regalado’s family.