A star football player at Mission Hills High School in San Marcos, Calif., died Thursday after collapsing in the school’s gym, according to reports.
Anthony Vaeao, a senior, collapsed while playing a pickup basketball game, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported, quoting principal David Cochrane’s comments to KFMB/Channel 8.
According to the newspaper, authorities received a call for medical aid at the gym at 2:51 p.m. PT and Vaeao was later pronounced dead at an area hospital. The Medical Examiner's Office is investigating, the report said.
A candlelight vigil was held at the school Thursday night. A picture from the vigil was posted on the San Marcos Unified School District's Facebook page, along with the words, "Gone but never forgotten #58."
A statement called Vaeao "a tremendous player and more tremendous as a friend" who will be remembered for his humor and love of life.
"He was on his way to college soon, but instead is in heaven above protecting all those he loved. Rest in Peace Anthony and give Sabrina a big hug from all of us," the statement said.
Vaeao had signed a letter of intent to play next year at Arizona Western College in Yuma, according to that school’s website.
