Division-II running back pronounced dead after medical emergency in team's season opener

A college in Liberty, Missouri, is in mourning after one of the school's running backs was pronounced dead following a medical emergency on the sideline during the team's season-opening game.

William Jewell College running back MicahJo Barnett was the player involved in the incident during the game against D-II rival Fort Lewis College.

The game, which was being played at William Jewell College's Greene Stadium, was suspended, with a vigil in memory of the late junior running back scheduled for Saturday evening.

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"William Jewell & the Liberty community mourn the passing of junior MicahJo Barnett," the school's athletic department posted on social media. "Our thoughts & prayers are with MicahJo’s family, teammates, friends, & coaches. A vigil will be held tonight on the Jewell quad at 8 p.m. in honor of MicahJo & family."

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The school's interim president, Dr. Drew Van Horn, thanked first responders for the efforts to save Barnett, who was pursuing a business major at the small liberal arts college.

"We appreciate the response from the sheriff’s office, the police department, EMS team, physician for the team, everybody responded so quickly, so well," Dr. Van Horn told Fox 4 KC. "Our hearts are heavy and we just appreciate all the support that we have received from the greater community."

Barnett had scored a touchdown earlier in the game, not long before his death.

According to the school's athletics site, Barnett hailed from Shawnee, Kansas, and has six siblings. In high school, he led Liberty North High School to a state title during his senior year.

Barnett appeared in eight games his freshman year, but was limited to five in 2025 due to a season-ending injury.