Students Mourn Death of Dana Payne

(Memphis) Dana Payne’s classmates are still grieving over his sudden death.

Millington Central High School canceled football practice Wednesday. 

Barrington Harwell says he’s been playing football with Payne for years.

“He could do what younger people shouldn’t even be able to do at his age,” said Harwell. “Defense and shift line, all that.”

He’s one of many students having a difficult time coming back to school, the day after Payne passed away after suffering chest pains during football practice. 

Wednesday, other students reported feeling chest pains and anxiety, all overwhelmed by grief. 

Officials say three students were taken to the hospital by ambulances and five others were taken by their parents. Harwell said he didn’t know if he would last the day.

“I am not even sure I can stay,” said Harwell. “It’s hard to even think about it.”

He wore a sign on his shirt that read “Rest in paradise Dana Payne. Gone but not forgotten.”

“”He’s gone to a better place but he will always been in our hearts, ” said Deterryon Hunt, a long time friend.