ALAMANCE COUNTY, N.C. — The Cummings High School community is grappling with an overwhelming loss following the sudden death of 15-year-old Malik Mebane, a talented varsity football player. The initial news reports suggested that Malik collapsed on the field at practice on Monday, prompting immediate efforts from his teammates and staff to save him. There were conflicting news reports about an occurrence walking to practice, but the family set the record straight noting that the truth is that he collapsed during practice while running sprints, giving his all. We support the family position of facts as they understood them to be.
Despite the quick response of the school’s athletic trainer, who began CPR, and the swift arrival of emergency medical services, Malik was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. The shocking news has left students, staff, and families in deep mourning.
In a heartfelt message to the school community, the principal expressed sorrow over the tragic event, emphasizing Malik’s role as a student and athlete who was deeply embedded in the fabric of the school. Alamance-Burlington Schools (ABSS) officials confirmed that a team of counselors was deployed to assist students and staff in coping with their grief.
Local football teams have rallied around Cummings High School, sharing messages of solidarity and support. Southern Alamance football took to social media, posting, “We send out thoughts and prayers to the Cummings football team and community today as they cope with the loss of a teammate, student, and friend.” Similarly, Eastern Alamance football echoed these sentiments, offering prayers for the grieving community.
ABSS released a statement detailing the incident, reinforcing their commitment to supporting the students during this difficult time. “Our District and the school community are heartbroken by this tragic loss. Malik Mebane was a student, an athlete, and a part of our community,” they stated. They also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the broader community as they focus on helping Malik’s family and friends.
As Cummings High School navigates this painful chapter, the legacy of Malik Mebane will surely resonate within the hearts of those who knew him. His presence on the football field and within the community will be remembered fondly, even as the grief of his untimely passing continues to weigh heavily on his parents, the students and staff, and the Burlington family.
The city was already in the midst of grieving another tragedy, a middle school over from Cummings, holding a vigil to honor beloved 7-year-old Mason Jenkins who was killed in Burlington by a stray bullet from a senseless shooting.
In moments like these, the collective strength of community becomes paramount, reminding everyone of the importance of supporting one another in times of profound loss.
Pray for my city!
