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13-Year-Old NC Athlete Loses Life to Sudden Cardiac Arrest
2 Sep
Summary
- A 13-year-old North Carolina student athlete died suddenly during football practice.
- The student suffered cardiac arrest and received emergency medical treatment.
- His family believes an underlying genetic condition may have contributed to his death.

A North Carolina community is in mourning after 13-year-old Caden Sorrell died suddenly during a football practice. The Northwest Guilford Middle School student suffered cardiac arrest on Sunday, August 30, according to his family. Emergency responders rushed Sorrell to Cone Hospital, where doctors utilized ECMO to support his heart and lungs.
Despite these intensive efforts, the medical damage proved too severe. Sorrell's family shared that the loss is particularly painful as he leaves behind four siblings, including a twin brother. Doctors suspect an underlying genetic condition may have contributed to his death, prompting further testing for his siblings.
The school principal expressed deep sorrow, acknowledging the unimaginable loss for the family and school community. An outdoor memorial has been established for tributes, and a vigil is scheduled for Wednesday, September 2, to honor the young athlete's memory.