Fourteen-year-old Knox MacEwen tragically passed away on November 4, 2023, while participating in a 5K run in Florida, according to a report from NBC 6 South Florida.
Knox was an active member of the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program at Western High School in Davie, Florida. Sadly, his young life came to an abrupt and heartbreaking end when he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest during the race, which was held as part of the JROTC program’s activities.
According to NBC Miami, Knox was immediately rushed to Memorial Hospital Miramar after collapsing, but despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.
In the wake of this tragic loss, Western High School’s principal, Jimmy Arrojo, shared the devastating news with the school’s community. “I am saddened to share the tragic news that one of our JROTC students passed away this morning after being transported to the hospital,” he wrote in a heartfelt message to students, staff, and families. Arrojo extended his deepest condolences to Knox’s family, friends, teachers, and classmates as they navigate the immense grief caused by his passing.
Principal Arrojo also emphasized the importance of community support during this difficult time, stating, “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 throughout the week to provide assistance and support to anyone who may need it.”
The JROTC program, in which Knox was involved, is a federally sponsored initiative for high school students, supported by the U.S. Armed Forces. The program focuses on character development and aims to instill qualities such as self-discipline, self-confidence, and leadership skills in young participants. Knox’s involvement in the program spoke to his commitment to personal growth and service, making his untimely death even more poignant for his peers and teachers.
In addition to his school activities, Knox was an active member of Crossway Church in Cooper City, Florida. His presence at the church had a lasting impact on many, and the loss has reverberated deeply throughout the church community. Pastor Jon Elswick spoke about the profound effect Knox’s death has had on those who knew and loved him. “When you have a tragedy like this, and someone as loved as Knox, the ripple effects spread throughout the church community. Many students were friends with him, and there are family members who are close with his family, so this has been a very difficult time for all of us,” Pastor Elswick said, reflecting on the widespread grief.
Pastor Elswick shared a touching sentiment from Knox’s father, who, despite his immense grief, described his son with heartfelt pride. “Knox’s dad said to me a couple of days ago that Knox was the best of us. I love that phrase because if you knew Knox, that’s exactly who he was. This was a teenager who, when you think about him, you think of a loving, caring, and funny kid,” Pastor Elswick continued.
The loss of Knox MacEwen, a young boy with so much promise and so much love to give, has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. His kind, generous, and light-hearted spirit will not soon be forgotten by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Our deepest sympathies go out to Knox’s family and all who were touched by his life. May he rest in peace.
