Poppy Bilderbeck
A New York high school hockey player has passed away following 'a sudden medical event' during a charity match.
On Saturday night (November 30), a charity hockey match took place at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center in Bethpage, New York, to commemorate a high school student who passed away last year.
However, during an intermission in the game, senior student at Massapequa High School and hockey player Connor Kasin, 17, became unwell and has since passed away, Nassau County police reported.
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Nassau Police reported that Connor lost consciousness while on the ice during a break within the match.
CPR immediately started being performed on the teenager and paramedics and police rushed to the scene.
Connor was taken to a local hospital but sadly passed away. His cause of death has not yet been publicly released, but police said that despite the ongoing investigation, no 'criminality' is 'suspected'.
And Massapequa Public Schools Superintendent William Brennan informed parents of the teenager's passing in a letter to parents and staff.
The letter read: "It is with profound sorrow that I inform you of the tragic loss of one of our beloved Massapequa High School students, Connor Kasin. Connor was a cherished member of our school community, known for his kindness, positivity, enthusiasm, and big smile. He had a way of bringing light and joy to those around him, and his absence will be felt deeply by all of us.
"Our hearts are heavy as we grieve alongside Connor's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We understand that this loss may raise many emotions, and we want to assure you that support is available. Our school counseling teams are here to provide emotional support to students, staff, and families. We encourage anyone who feels they need assistance to contact their school.
"As we navigate this difficult time, we kindly ask that you keep Connor's family in your thoughts and prayers, and respectfully honor their privacy as they cope with this immeasurable loss. Please know that we are committed to supporting one another through this challenging time. Together, we will honor Connor's memory and provide care for those who are grieving."
The hockey game was being held in honor of Syosset High School graduate Sabrina Navaretta who died in a car crash in 2023 and Sabrina's parents have also addressed Connor's passing.
Sabrina's parents extended their condolences to Connor's loved ones, noting they 'know the heartbreak' they're going through and are 'here for you'.
"There are no words to convey our heartbreak that we feel as last night was supposed to be a fun night. The community came together to celebrate Sabrina's life and our family's commitment to help with scholarship, dog rescue and assisting grieving parents," they continued. "We would like the Kasin family to know our commitment to you. Connor was there to play for Sabrina and our family is here for you."
Sabrina's parents urged Connor's loved ones to 'take the time to grieve and be kind' to themselves.
They resolved: "Sending you love and strength in the coming days and weeks. Embrace the communities love and know that you are not alone."
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact The Compassionate Friends on (877) 969-0010.