Russell County High School freshman dies after medical emergency during softball tryouts

RUSSELL COUNTY, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — A Russell County High School student has died following a medical emergency during softball tryouts, according to school officials and the coroner.

In a post on its Facebook page, Russell County High School confirmed that freshman Brylie Northcutt passed away.

“Russell County Schools is deeply saddened to share that Russell County High School freshman Brylie Northcutt passed away due to a medical emergency,” the school said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Brylie’s family, friends, classmates, and the entire Laker family during this very difficult time.”

What officials say happened

The Russell County Coroner told ABC36 NEWS NOW that Northcutt collapsed while trying out for the school’s softball team. CPR was performed at the field before she was transported to a hospital, where she later died.

The coroner said he believes Northcutt’s death was caused by a pulmonary embolism, though the exact cause is still under investigation. Officials say it could take six to eight weeks for final results to be confirmed.

Softball community remembers Brylie

Teammates and coaches are also sharing tributes online. In a Facebook post, the RCMS Lady Laker Softball program said it was “devastated by the loss our softball family has encountered,” remembering the moments they shared with Brylie over the past several years.

“You were just getting started on your high school journey,” the post read in part. “You were taken from us way too soon, but may you always be our angel and watch over us for all the days to come.”

The team asked the community to keep Brylie’s family and friends in their prayers, saying she will always be missed.

Officials have not released additional details as the investigation continues.