MILLINGTON, TN (abc24.com) - Millington Central High School's Friday night football game at Kirby High School will go on as planned, as the community still mourns the sudden death of sophomore player Dana Payne at football practice Tuesday.
According to the police report, 15-year-old Payne was tackled by a single player and took a hit to the middle of his body. The coach noticed Payne didn't get up, remained in the kneeling position, and was struggling to breathe. He was rushed to Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, but died before he arrived. The report says Payne had asthma but had not complained about it before or during practice.
Millington's football practice was cancelled Wednesday, but will resume Thursday afternoon. Friday's game will take place at Kirby High School at 7 p.m. as planned.
A family fund has been set up in Dana Payne's name at area First Tennessee Bank and First South Credit Union locations.
