Tragic Loss of 14-Year-Old Knox MacEwen During 5K Run in Florida

On November 4, 2023, 14-year-old Knox MacEwen tragically passed away after collapsing during a 5K race in Florida, according to a report from NBC 6 South Florida. Knox was a bright and active member of the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) at Western High School in Davie, Florida. His sudden passing has left the school and his community devastated.

Knox’s untimely death was the result of cardiac arrest, which he suffered while participating in the JROTC-organized 5K event. Following the incident, Knox was immediately transported to Memorial Hospital Miramar. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital, as reported by NBC Miami.

The heartbreaking news was shared by the school’s principal, Jimmy Arrojo, who addressed students, staff, and families in an emotional statement. “I am saddened to share tragic news impacting our Wildcat community. One of our JROTC students passed away this morning after being transported to the hospital,” said Arrojo. He expressed his deepest sympathies to Knox’s family, loved ones, teachers, and classmates, acknowledging the profound impact this loss would have on those who knew the young boy.

Arrojo also called for the Western High School community to offer their support during this difficult time. “I ask our Wildcat community to rally around the family in prayer and support during this time of deep sorrow. Please know that grief counselors will be available on campus this week to meet with anyone needing assistance or support,” he added.

The JROTC, sponsored by the U.S. Armed Forces, is a high school program that promotes character development, leadership, self-discipline, and self-confidence. Knox’s involvement in the program demonstrated his dedication to these values, as he actively engaged with the program throughout his time at Western High School.

Knox was not only a valued member of JROTC but also a beloved part of the Crossway Church in Cooper City, where he was cherished by many. Pastor Jon Elswick, who knew Knox well, spoke of the immense loss felt by the church community. “I think when you have a tragedy like this, and someone as loved as Knox, there are ripple effects all the way through our church community,” Pastor Elswick said. He explained that Knox had close connections with many people in the congregation, including students and families, making his loss even harder to bear.

Pastor Elswick continued to reflect on Knox’s character, sharing a touching sentiment from Knox’s father. “Knox’s dad said to me a couple of days ago that Knox was the best of us, and I love that phrase because if you knew Knox, that’s who he was. He was a teenager who, when you think about him, you think of a loving kid, a caring kid, a funny kid.”

The grief surrounding Knox’s sudden passing has been profound, both within his school and church communities. He was well-known for his kindness, his sense of humor, and the compassion he showed to others. His death is not only a loss for his family but also for everyone whose lives he touched.

The outpouring of love and support for Knox and his family during this time reflects the lasting impression he made on those around him. While the pain of losing someone so young is difficult to comprehend, those who knew him find comfort in the memories of his vibrant spirit and the love he shared with the world.

We extend our deepest condolences to Knox’s family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic event. May he rest in peace, and may his memory continue to live on in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved him.