Tragic Loss: New Brockton High School Student Dies During Football Practice

In New Brockton, Alabama, a heartbreaking incident has left the community in shock. A freshman football player, Semaj Wilkins, passed away after experiencing a medical emergency during football practice on Tuesday, August 13. The Coffee County School System confirmed the tragic news through a social media post on August 15.

According to the county’s coroner’s office, Wilkins collapsed during warm-ups and was immediately resuscitated with CPR while waiting for emergency responders. The arrival of emergency personnel was prompt, and they rushed him to the Medical Center Enterprise, where he was pronounced dead shortly after.

Coroner Arnold Woodham expressed his grief, stating, “This is a very emotional time for [Wilkins’] family and the Emergency Responders involved.” Woodham, who had been a resident of the area all his life, remarked, “I’ve been here all my life and this is the first time I’ve seen or heard of anything like this occurring here.”

The Coffee County School System released a heartfelt statement, saying, “Semaj was a young man who brought joy and inspiration to his peers, teammates, coaches, and faculty members. His loss will be deeply felt by everyone who knew him.”

In response to this tragedy, a vigil is scheduled for Friday, August 16, at 7:00 p.m. at the New Brockton High School Football Stadium. This gathering invites the community to “celebrate the life of Semaj Wilkins” and provides a chance to honor his mother, Regena Adams. The school has also stated their commitment to help collect contributions for the family to assist with funeral and burial expenses.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with the local sheriff’s and district attorney’s offices involved. Additionally, Wilkins’ body has been sent to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for an autopsy, which may take several weeks.

The tragic loss of Semaj Wilkins has left an indelible mark on the tight-knit community of New Brockton. As friends, family, and fellow students mourn, they reflect on the positive impact Wilkins made in their lives.