An Illinois high school student has died after a tragedy during a homecoming parade. The student, Heath Toothman, was just 17 years old at the time of his death.
The tragedy took place at Eldorado High School on Thursday. A letter from his school district explained how the tragic death occurred.
"The students, staff, and families of Eldorado Unit #4 School District received the news last night that one of our beloved students, Heath Toothman, a senior at Eldorado High School passed away," Superintendent Ryan Hobbs began. "On the way back from the homecoming parade, Heath lost his balance while jumping off of the senior float and hit his head."
The letter noted that first responders were on the scene immediately and that the injured teen was flown to Deaconess Hospital. Sadly, he did not survive.
"Now our attention goes to pulling together as a community and doing everything we can for Heath's family and fellow students," the letter continued.
The loss is being felt deeply by the entire community. Now Heath is being remembered for his incredible spirit. His obituary says he "touched many lives" and that he had a "unique ability to light up a room."
The school is doing a lot to celebrate Heath's life, as well as to care for the students who witnessed the horrific tragedy. They've held events at the school to honor him since his death. This week, students wore blue, Heath's favorite color, as a way to celebrate his life.
Heath is survived by his grandmother and his guardian. He also had two brothers and four sisters. Sadly, both of his parents, Charles and Norma Toothman, preceded him in death.
Heath's high school is hoping to raise funds for his family. They've set up a GoFundMe page to help with expenses. The $5,000 goal has already been surpassed.
