Students mourn loss of classmate in Lawrence Co. | News

LAWRENCE COUNTY, AL (WAFF)- Some high school students are mourning the loss of a classmate.

Lawrence County Superintendent Heath Grimes said 10th grader, Thomas Allen, 17, was throwing around the football with a football coach when he passed out.

Principal Jean Howard said the incident occurred after school hours. Allen was going to play a game of pickup football with friends. He passed out before the game started.

Two teachers responded and called 911.

Allen was taken to Lawrence County Medical where he died.

Classes at Lawrence County High were canceled Wednesday, but classmates and teachers were allowed to come to the school to talk with counselors and clergy.

Doctors have not said what caused his death, but they believe it could have been a pre-existing heart condition - one that Thomas may not have known about.

As doctors look for that answer, his family and friends mourn his loss.

Lawrence County High School is taking donations for Allen's family. All the proceeds will go to the funeral home to cover Allen's funeral arrangements.

Donations can be made at the front office of the school. There is also a fund set up at any Bank Independent under "The Thomas Allen Memorial Fund."

Thomas played football for the school last season.

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