The community of Hopkinsville has been mourning the loss of a teen who was killed in a gun-related accident.
The incident happened Saturday on Beaumont Court. Reports stated 14-year-old Elijah Austin, known as EJ, was playing video games at a relative’s house when he accidentally shot himself with a gun that was in the home.
The deputy coroner said they do not believe foul play was involved; however, an autopsy has been set in Louisville, Kentucky to determine any further details.
According to his coach, the team and those in need following EJ’s death met at 2 p.m. Sunday.
Hopkinsville High School Principal Todd Marshall said he was a rising star.
"He was a very good student. As a freshman, he was emerging as a leader on the football team and within the school," Marshall said.
Marshall said EJ played football, baseball, basketball, and grew up in the neighborhood.
"Right now our school is grieving an awesome student, and we're sorry for the family and ask for prayers for the family," Marshall said.
Marshall said EJ excelled in the classroom.
"Good student," Marshall said. "Very proud of him. Worked well with other kids, was always in a good mood in the hallways when I saw him. Just a good student all around. We're sorry for his loss."
The principal added EJ was already receiving interest from potential colleges.
"And was probably going to be a big star within four years for us, and colleges would have been looking at him tremendously," Marshall said.
There was an outpouring of love and condolences on social media Sunday.
One of his coaches tweeted: "Best Frosh DB [defensive back] I've ever coached. Even better kid & leader. Had such a bright future that was matched by an infectious personality. Gone too soon."
"He had that leadership quality where kids just kind of followed him on and off the field. He could ask kids to do things in the school, and they would kind of follow him along," Marshall said.
The Monday after fall break, they will have grief counselors at school.
The football team's official twitter page tweeted out a link to a gofundme account to help the family during this difficult time.
*NewsChannel5.com does not assure that the monies or donations deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a donation, you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
