An eighth-grade student in Missouri has died from complications brought on by COVID-19, school officials said.
Peyton Baumgarth, a 13-year-old at Washington Middle School in Franklin County, succumbed to the illness over the weekend after developing coronavirus symptoms, news station KMOV reported.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family,” school officials said in an email to parents and staff.
He last attended in-person classes on Oct. 22 and informed the school four days later that he was under quarantine, STL Today reported. The boy was hospitalized when his symptoms got worse.
“The family also asks that we all remember to wear masks, wash hands frequently and follow guidelines,” the school said.
“COVID-19 is real and they want to remind students and parents to take these precautions in and outside of school.”
Officials said guidance counselors will be made available to students when they return to campus.
“Because we know this will impact our school community emotionally, we encourage you to be especially sensitive and prepare to offer support to your child(ren) during this difficult time,” the school said.
Peyton was remembered on a GoFundMe page as a “wonderful young man, who always had a smile to share with you.”
“He was so very sweet and caring and FUN,” the page said. “He loved Christmas, video games, and enjoyed making YouTube videos, playing Pokemon GO, playing football and being with his family.”
