Texas High School Football Player Preston Malone Dies After Practice Emergency

A Texas community is mourning the loss of 15-year-old Preston Malone III, a sophomore at Lancaster Early College High School, who passed away after a medical emergency during football practice.

Malone, a junior varsity football player, began feeling unwell during indoor practice on August 18. According to school officials, he told a coach he wasn’t feeling right. “The coach immediately noticed Preston was not sweating,” said district spokesperson Kimberly Simpson. Staff quickly called 911 and placed him in a cold tub to lower his body temperature. He was transported to a hospital, but his condition worsened overnight, and he passed away on August 20.

Superintendent A. Katrise Perera Simpson shared that Preston’s final words were, “Hey, I’m sorry I was unable to finish the workout,” reflecting his dedication and character.

Temperatures reached 104°F that day. Though practice was indoors, the facility lacked central air conditioning. Coaches and former mentors remembered Preston as determined and hardworking. “He wasn’t the biggest kid, so he always had to fight,” said Coach Marcus Badger.

The Lancaster community continues to honor Preston’s memory and spirit.