By Roger Adkins, Coal Valley News
MADISON, W.Va. — A Boone County community is mourning the loss of a Madison Middle School student who died Saturday after injuries sustained at football practice on Friday.
13-year-old Cohen Craddock, an 8th-grade student and football player succumbed to injuries sustained the previous day.
The incident
According to Boone County law enforcement officials, the injury occurred during a practice drill when Craddock collided with another player. The athlete, who wore jersey number 75 for the Madison Middle School Red Hawks, died the next day. Officials said he was wearing a helmet when the incident occurred.
Community response
The news of Craddock’s death has deeply affected the Madison community and beyond.
On Monday, August 26, students, staff, and teachers throughout the Boone County School System wore red in tribute to Craddock and the Madison Middle School Red Hawks.
The Boone County Sheriff’s Department expressed condolences in a social media post, describing Craddock as a “bright young athlete.” Boone Memorial Health also acknowledged the community’s loss in a social media post and encouraged employees to wear red and black in honor of Craddock.
Football teams from across the state, including Roane County High School and Midland Trail Football, offered prayers and support on their social media pages for Craddock’s family and the Madison community.
