PALATKA, Fla. — The Putnam County school district is mourning the "unexpected" death of a Palatka student that occurred Tuesday morning.
According to Putnam County Sheriff H.D. DeLoach, the student, identified as Robert Gillon, was an athlete at Palatka Junior-Senior High School. The Palatka Police Department said Gillon's death occurred at home, not on school grounds.
"There are not words to express the sorrow we feel for the family, friends, classmates, staff of Palatka Junior-Senior High and teammates of the student who died unexpectedly this morning," DeLoach said. "As the agency charged with the safety of our schools, our concern is now turned to the well-being of this student's family and the students, faculty and staff."
The school canceled its athletic events and activities scheduled for Tuesday. A prayer vigil is scheduled for 5 p.m. at the PJSHS gym for students and the community to honor Gillon's life.
In a letter sent to parents, Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency said the school district is offering counseling support to students and staff.
"The Palatka Jr-Sr High School community and Putnam County School District are deeply saddened by the recent passing of a student," Surrency said. "We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends affected by this tragedy."
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to First Coast News as more information becomes available.