A Georgia high school football player was found dead just one day before his team was slated to play in the state championship, according to district officials in an announcement Sunday night.
Officials from Meriwether County School System confirmed the death of Manchester High School’s Brandon Smith, 17, in a letter issued to parents, according to 11 Alive. The news came just one day before the school was set to play in the Georgia 1-A State Football Championship, per the outlet.
“We are heartbroken to hear the news of the tragic and untimely death of one of our student-athletes, Brandon Smith,” said Meriwether Schools Superintendent Robert Griffin and Manchester High School Principal Suzie Neal in a letter, according to 11 Alive. “Manchester High School’s celebration of playing for the Georgia Class A Division II State Championship has unfortunately turned into something none of us could have fathomed.”
Meriwether County football player dies on eve of team’s state title game. 17-year-old Brandon Smith’s body was found this morning. His coach posted on FB on Sat., he was missing. @GBI_GA assisting Manchester PD. https://t.co/A9oMBSzFbQ pic.twitter.com/OH1nB0wtWv
— Cody Alcorn (@CodyAlcorn) December 10, 2023
The school said Smith, who is remembered as a “loyal teammate and friend,” will be “deeply missed,” per 11 Alive.
Smith’s cause of death is currently unknown. Manchester authorities are currently investigating his death and requested the Georgia Bureau of Investigation for assistance, according to 11 Alive. (RELATED: Former Tennessee Titans Star Frank Wycheck, 52, Dies After Hitting His Head During Fall)
“We continue to pray for Brandon’s family, friends, teammates, and classmates. Manchester High School will have mental health support available starting on Monday morning,” the letter added, per 11 Alive.
