A small town in Illinois is mourning the tragic and sudden death of a high school freshman who collapsed during a basketball game. 

14-year-old Amari Crite had an unexpected medical emergency on the evening of January 25.

The Momence High student was heading toward the court's defensive end when she suddenly fell, according to the Daily Journal.

High schooler dies tragically...

The cause of death is under investigation by the county coroner.

Shannon Anderson, the school's superintendent, said the district is "deeply saddened to confirm the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of our 9th-grade students on January 25, 2024."

"Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends affected by this tragic loss," Anderson said.

Counseling will be available to the students while the community processes this tragic occurrence, Anderson added.

"At this time, we are prioritizing the well-being of our students, staff, and the broader school community. Mental health and counseling support will be available in all buildings on January 26 and as needed in the coming days and weeks to assist those who may be grappling with the emotional impact of this tragedy. We are deeply thankful to neighboring Districts and the mental health and grief counseling providers in the Kankakee County area that have volunteered their services to assist our community during this time.

"We understand the interest from the media in covering this story, and we appreciate your sensitivity in approaching this matter. However, we kindly request for the privacy and grieving process of the family and the school community during this difficult time."

"Our primary focus right now is on supporting one another and providing the necessary resources for our community to cope with this loss. We ask for your understanding and cooperation in this matter."

Community heartbroken by tragedy

The whole community is heartbroken by this tragedy.

The local sheriff's office shared their condolences, writing on Facebook, "The Kankakee County Sheriff's Office with the Momence School District during this difficult time. Friends, family and classmates are all in our prayers.  We will all remain #RedskinStrong."

The family has raised $50,000 to cover funeral expenses on GoFundMe, surpassing their goal of $15,000. They asked people to chip in whatever they can "to help us give her the proper home going she deserves."

Such an awful tragedy. RIP.