Temecula High School Football Player Dies Days After Playing Game

TEMECULA, CA — A Chaparral High School football player has died just days after taking the field in a game, prompting an outpouring of grief from teammates, coaches and the community.

Connor Rios, a junior linebacker for the Chaparral Pumas, died on Wednesday, the school's football team announced Thursday in a statement posted to Instagram.

Rios was 16, according to multiple social media posts.

"It is with unimaginable sadness that we share the tragic passing of our brother, teammate, and friend, Junior Linebacker, Connor Rios!" the team wrote on Instagram.

"It is extremely difficult to put words that can truly express the pain and heartbreak we are feeling. Connor was more than a football player. He was a son, a brother, a teammate, and a valued member of our Puma family. His presence, his spirit, and the memories he created with all of us will forever be a part of Chaparral Football," the statement continued.

No cause of death was provided.

Rios most recently played for Chaparral in its Oct. 29 matchup against Vista Murrieta, according to MaxPreps.

The Pumas are scheduled to face Orange High School on Friday. On Instagram, the school referenced the hashtag "#DoItFor4," honoring Rios' jersey number.

A fundraiser that was established to support Rios' family has raised nearly $19,000.

A celebration of life for Rios is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 14 at Cornerstone Community Church in Wildomar.