Minnesota Boy, 7, Dies After Facing Medical Emergency at Elementary School
ST. CLOUD, Minn. — A 7-year-old boy died last week after suffering a medical emergency at Westwood Elementary School, according to police and school officials.
Emergency Response at the School
The St. Cloud Police Department said officers were dispatched to the school just before 9:30 a.m. on September 16, following a report of a student who was not breathing. Staff performed CPR before the child was rushed to CentraCare – St. Cloud Hospital and later transferred to Hennepin County Medical Center, where he died.
Authorities said there is no suspicion of foul play. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the official cause of death.
School District Confirms Death
In a statement on September 22, St. Cloud Area School District 742 confirmed the tragedy.
“It is with great sadness that we share that a member of our Westwood student community passed away after experiencing a medical emergency at school last week,” the district said.
Officials noted that they conducted a full review of the school’s response and cooperated with law enforcement. They also emphasized that counseling and support teams are available to students and staff.
Impact on the Somali and Disability Communities
CBS affiliate WCCO reported that the boy, who had autism, was a member of the local Somali community. His death has left both his family and community searching for answers.
“As of this moment, that’s how confused the family is right now. They don’t have a concrete answer about what happened,” said Samsam Mohamed, a board member with autism advocacy group Maangaar Voices.
In a statement, the group added, “This tragedy has deeply impacted not only the Somali community but also the broader disability community. The loss underscores systemic gaps in how children with disabilities are supported and protected in schools, and the pain is being felt widely across many communities.”
Grief and Support
While the boy’s family has not spoken publicly due to ongoing legal matters, community leaders say they are rallying to provide comfort and support during this difficult time.
The school district says its counseling staff remain available for students coping with the news, encouraging anyone affected to reach out for help.
Have you or your family ever experienced a medical emergency at school? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
