Dylan Thomas: Football player at Pike County High School has died as a result of injuries caused by a football match two days ago; Georgia student was a sophomore

A football player from a Georgian high school died after suffering a debilitating brain injury during a Friday game. Dylan Thomas, a student at Pike County High School, succumbed to his injuries Sunday night, according to his family and school officials.

Thomas' uncle, Nick Burgess, said Thomas was hit in the second quarter of the match and then collapsed. He was taken to undergo surgery to relieve swelling of the brain and remained in a coma until Sunday. He remembered his nephew in a touching article on the social media platform.

"The one who was the golden child in the family and who really reunited the family," Burgess wrote Monday. "The one who had the biggest heart, I love you and will never forget you."

A fundraiser for medical expenses and the loss of income started by Burgess raised more than $ 32,000 Monday afternoon.

Superintendent Michael Duncan and Principal Kevin Huffstetler confirmed the news on the Facebook page of Pike County High School on Monday. They also stated that school counselors would be available to students in mourning after the loss of Dylan.

"Dylan was an active member of our school community and a member of the 2020 class. Please, remember his family in the days to come."

A vigil for Thomas took place Sunday afternoon on the school's football pitch, where hundreds of people showed their support. And after the announcement of Thomas' death, members of the community and neighboring schools paid tribute to him on social media.

"I just wanted to take the time to tell RIP to Dylan Thomas who suffered a fatal injury in the match against Peach County this weekend. wrote.

"The prayers are going to Dylan's family and friends, as well as to Pike's community and their team.Flying High Dylan Thomas," said another.

"Our hearts are broken, but our prayers and love go to his family and friends when needed," read a message on Peach County High School's Facebook page. The school principal also announced a minute of silence for Thomas.