William Jewell College football player MicahJo Barnett has died after a medical emergency occurred during the team's game Saturday.
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Barnett was a junior running back and business administration major at the Missouri school. William Jewell announced his death following the suspension of Saturday's game because of a medical emergency on the team's sideline.
The school has not announced a cause of death.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with MicahJo's family, our students, the Cardinal Football family, and the rest of our community during this time of loss," William Jewell Athletics said in a statement.
Barnett was a native of Liberty, Missouri, and played high school football at Liberty North.
William Jewell defensive lineman Jayshawn Richmond remembered Barnett as a teammate others could turn to for encouragement.
"He was a hometown kid," Richmond told KMBC. "Everybody looked up to him. He was a guy you go to whenever ... you just need a little bit more motivation."
Barnett started five games for William Jewell last season before suffering a season-ending injury. He led the team with 366 rushing yards on 71 carries and scored four touchdowns.
Before college, Barnett helped Liberty North win a state championship during his senior season. He earned All-Conference and All-State honors after recording 1,450 all-purpose yards and 20 touchdowns.
William Jewell is making counseling and chaplain services available to students and staff.
The college also announced that a vigil will be held in Barnett's honor on campus.
Our thoughts are with Barnett's family, friends, teammates and the entire William Jewell community.
