A U.S. Air Force Academy football player died on Monday after experiencing “a medical emergency” on his way to class, the school confirmed.
The cadet, identified as 21-year-old Hunter Brown from Lake Charles, Louisiana, joined the Air Force Academy after graduating in May 2021 from its Preparatory School, which provides a 10-month training program for prospective cadets. He was studying management with a minor in French and had played as an offensive lineman on the football team for two seasons.
“Hunter was a standout offensive lineman on the Falcon football team and was well-respected in his squadron,” said Lt. Gen. Richard M. Clark, the academy’s superintendent, in a statement. “The entire U.S. Air Force Academy mourns his loss, and our hearts and condolences go out to his family, his squadron, and all who were touched by this incredible young man.”
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The school reported that Brown was on his way to class from his dormitory on Monday when he “experienced a medical emergency.” Despite immediate efforts by first responders to resuscitate him with “life-saving measures,” they were unsuccessful. The exact cause of death has not been disclosed. The academy, located near Colorado Springs, stated that it will work with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office to conduct an investigation, which is “standard protocol” for any on-base death involving a military member.
Troy Calhoun, the head football coach for the Falcons, praised Brown in a statement, describing him as “a pure joy to coach and have as a teammate.”
“Our players, staff, and entire Academy have been so blessed and fortunate to have Hunter as a part of our lives,” said Calhoun. “He was tough, a great worker, and no one unselfishly pulled harder for others than Hunter. His mom and dad, Candyce and Dustin, raised a wonderful son who made each of us a better person. We love our great brother, and our thoughts and prayers are with Hunter’s incredible soul and his family.”
