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Connor Rios, a junior linebacker at Chaparral High School in Temecula, Calif., died on Wednesday just days after playing in a game, his school’s football program announced on Thursday.
“It is with unimaginable sadness that we share the tragic passing of our brother, teammate, and friend, Junior Linebacker, Connor Rios,” Chaparral Puma Football wrote in an emotional statement on its Instagram page.
“It is extremely difficult to put words that can truly express the pain and heartbreak we are feeling. Connor was more than a football player. He was a son, a brother, a teammate, and a valued member of our Puma family.”
Multiple social media posts indicated Rios was 16 years old.
A cause of death was not given.
Rios logged snaps in Chaparral’s tilt with Vista Murrieta on Oct. 29, recording two tackles in a 49-14 victory, according to MaxPreps.
Rios’ X page stated he was a 4.0 student who was slated to graduate in 2028.
“His presence, his spirit, and the memories he created with all of us will forever be a part of Chaparral Football,” the Pumas said of the football player in their annoucnment of his death.
“We love you, Connor. You will always be a Puma. You will always be our brother.”
A fundraiser set up to support Rios’ family has garnered over $17,000. The page’s organizer encouraged people to donate a meal or other support as Rios’ loved ones are navigating “this incredibly difficult time.”
Chaparral is expected to play its scheduled postseason game against Orange High School later Friday despite Rios’ death. In announcing the plans for the evening matchup, the school wrote to “#DoItFor4” — an homage to Rios’ jersey number.
A celebration of his life, meanwhile, has been arranged for Nov. 14 at a church in Wildomar, Calif.
