15-Year-Old High School Football Player Passes Away

Tragedy During Practice

A 15-year-old Texas student, Preston Malone III, died after suffering a medical emergency during football practice on August 18.

Malone, a sophomore at Lancaster Early College High School and member of the junior varsity team, became ill during indoor practice and told his coach he wasn’t feeling well.

“The coach immediately noticed that Malone was not sweating,” said district spokesperson Kimberly Simpson.

“He was not perspiring.” Staff quickly called 911 and placed Malone in a cold tub before paramedics took him to the hospital. Though there was hope for recovery, his condition worsened, and he passed away on August 20.

Remembering Preston

Lancaster ISD issued a statement expressing condolences: “We want to express our heartfelt condolences to the family of our beloved student, Preston Malone III.”

Superintendent A. Katrise Perera Simpson shared Malone’s final words: “His last words were, ‘Hey, I’m sorry I was unable to finish the workout,’ which speaks to the type of kid Preston was.”

Practice Conditions

Due to extreme outdoor heat—temperatures reached 104°F—the practice was moved indoors. However, the indoor facility lacked an HVAC system. Simpson noted it had “four large garage door openings” and fans for ventilation.

The district said it followed all heat safety protocols: adjusting practice times, providing hydration, monitoring temperatures, and ensuring trainers were on-site. “When the medical emergency occurred, our staff responded immediately and with great care for our student.”

Honoring His Legacy

Former coaches paid tribute to Preston’s character and determination. “He wasn’t the biggest kid, so he always had to fight,” said Coach Marcus Badger. Coach Young added, “It’s just hard thinking someone that you’ve been knowing since they were a kid, gone as a kid.”