FORT WORTH — Students at Fort Worth's Southwest High School have lost a friend. Ryan Powell, 18, died Tuesday night shortly after showing off his baseball skills to a college scout.
The senior, who was described as an outstanding student and a very talented athlete, had just returned home when he suddenly collapsed, complaining of chest pain.
Powell never regained consciousness.
Powell's parents said doctors told them he apparently died of sudden cardiac arrest even though he had never showed any evidence of heart problems.
"A lot of kids, they're walking around, crying and everything," said Southwest High student Lucretia Pettis.
Powell's death also hit hard at the staff. The baseball coach was so torn up, he had to leave class Wednesday morning, unable to teach.
Powell's parents said they were touched to learn that students will be wearing special T-shirts in his honor this Friday.
The family is donating Ryan's organs.
E-mail cvega@wfaa.com
