ROZEL — A Pawnee Heights High School student died Tuesday night after collapsing on the football field during practice.

At 8:30 p.m., Pawnee County Emergency Medical Service and the sheriff’s office responded to a Pawnee Heights football practice due to a player collapsing. Medical personnel were unable to revive the young man at the scene.

Pawnee Heights USD 496 Principal Tina Vondracek confirmed that the student passed away on Aug. 18.

“We extend our most heartfelt sympathies to all those who are hurting and are focused on providing support and care to our school district community,” Vondracek stated in an email. The name of the student was not released.

“This week, we are focused on caring for our students, staff and community,” Vondracek stated. “ We also are committed to protecting the privacy of our students and their families. For this reason, we will not be granting interviews or allowing any media crews on district property. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”

Pawnee County Attorney Douglas McNett said that the PCSO confirmed that EMS was put on notice at 8:31 p.m. to send an ambulance, and deputies were en route at 8:32 p.m. Sheriff Larry Atteberry contacted McNett at 8:58 p.m. and then at 10:56 p.m. he was contacted by a detective requesting authorization for an autopsy.

That autopsy was performed in Wichita on Thursday, McNett said. It was not law-enforcement observed as there were multiple witnesses to the medical emergency and there is no suspicion of foul play.

“I have now had an opportunity to communicate with the young man’s father since the autopsy. They were advised that it could take up to three months before they receive any official results. In the meantime, we ask that the public not speculate as to cause,” McNett said.

He described the teen’s death as a tragedy, noting, “I did not know the young man personally, but know his parents. They are very active in the community and my heart breaks for them. The Rozel and Burdett communities which make up the Pawnee Heights School District are extremely close-knit, and I know this loss will be felt deeply.”

More information will be released as it becomes available.