Ypsilanti student dies after ‘medical emergency’ at high school basketball tryouts

Ypsilanti basketball

A file photo of Ypsilanti Community High School's basketball gym on Friday, Dec. 20, 2019. (MLive File Photo)Jenna Kieser

YPSILANTI - An Ypsilanti student died Monday after experiencing a medical emergency during high school boys basketball tryouts.

Ypsilanti Community Schools confirmed to MLive on Tuesday afternoon that Jaylen Mitchell was rushed to St. Joseph Mercy Hospital following the incident and he received immediate medical attention but ultimately died at the hospital.

The nature of the medical emergency was not disclosed.

Mitchell was a senior at YCHS Stemm Middle College and was well-liked by those in the community, the press release said.

“Jaylen has been described by his principal and coaches as a born leader that was well-liked by all his friends and staff, a great student that was smart, athletic, and compassionate, and someone who touched the lives of others for the better,” the press release stated.

“Jaylen enjoyed his friendships, spending time with his family, and playing multiple sports. Our thoughts are with Jaylen’s family during this difficult time, and we offer our sincerest condolences to all in our community who were touched by Jaylen’s life. Every student is loved and cared for at YCS, and this news is devastating to our school community.”

The school said its District Trauma Team has been working with students to discuss the incident and help them work through issues related to the crisis and grief process moving forward.

“Grief looks different for each of us and we recognize that such an incident can profoundly affect students, even when they were not in the same building, class or grade level,” the press release stated. “We are encouraging families to talk with their children about this tragedy and to reach out to the district if they have any questions or concerns about the grieving process. YCS also encourages the community to utilize other valuable resources available.”

Boys basketball tryouts and practices for high school teams across the state of Michigan began on Monday.

It is unclear how the Ypsilanti basketball program will move forward at this time. The team is scheduled to open its season at home on Dec. 12 against Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard.

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