A Paulsboro High School student died after collapsing on a town basketball court Thursday night.
PAULSBORO -- A 16-year-old boy died after collapsing on a borough basketball court Thursday night.
A group of teenagers were playing basketball on the Loudenslager Elementary School courts when the boy fell. Police and EMTs performed CPR, but he was not breathing when they arrived, according to Police Chief Vern Marino. He was taken to Inspira Medical Center in Woodbury where he was pronounced dead.
While police and the school district did not release the child's name, multiple sources have identified the boy as Derrius Moore, a sophomore at Paulsboro High School.
Principal Paul Morina described him as a quiet and studious kid who did well in school.
"All the teachers say he was a very nice person. He got along with all the kids," Morina said. "My heart goes out to the family.
The high school has made additional counselors available for any students and faculty members, and some of the students chose to wear green in honor of Derrius Friday, Morina added.
The police department is also providing services to family members and students at the school via its chaplains.
"Personally, my thoughts and prayers go out to the family. No matter how it happens, anytime you lose a child is devastating," Marino said. "Especially a young child like that, just out having a good time with his friends."
The Paulsboro school community lost a talented, bright young man yesterday. My heart aches for his family and for this...
Posted by Gina Morina on Friday, March 11, 2016
It's weird to think I talked to you in the hallway just yesterday. R.I.P Derrius #RaiderRespect
-- Nick DiPietro (@DiPEACHro) March 11, 2016
I can't believe your gone. I had just talked to you yesterday in class. RIP Derrius #RaiderRespect
-- Sean McAree (@mac17sean) March 11, 2016
Rebecca Forand may be reached at rforand@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @RebeccaForand. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.