In a tragic incident, a 14-year-old student from Western High School in Davie, Florida, succumbed to a fatal cardiac arrest while participating in a 5-kilometer track race.
The unfortunate event took place at Everglades High School in Miramar, Florida, on Saturday, November 4, 2023.
The young student, Knox MacEwen, was integral to the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC), as he actively contributed to the organization’s activities. The untimely cardiac arrest occurred during one of these events, which he attended as a participant.
Upon receiving the distress call, emergency services responded promptly at approximately 9 a.m. Despite vigorous efforts to resuscitate him, MacEwen was declared dead upon reaching the hospital.
Western High School’s principal, sharing the heartbreaking news with the staff and student community, mentioned making counseling services available to facilitate the students’ coping process for the devastating loss of their classmate.
MacEwen was acknowledged as an active participant and revered member within his school circles and local church community. The sad news is particularly wrenching for his family as MacEwen’s mother, Julie, is currently battling cancer.
The exact reason behind the cardiac arrest has not been confirmed. It is known that although cardiac arrest among the young is not frequent, it is possible and often strikes without previous indications. An estimated 200 cases of sudden cardiac death occur annually among children.
To help the MacEwen family with funeral expenses and related costs, a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated. By Tuesday, November 7, the campaign amassed over $68,000, surpassing the goal. The campaign represents Knox as a kind-hearted, humorous, and impactful teenager whose absence will be felt by those who knew him.
