Students from Ramona High School came together on campus Thursday night to mourn the sudden loss of beloved fellow student, Taylor Dorman, 16.
Dorman died on Wednesday – which was his 16th birthday -- after being accidentally hit in the chest with a softball during a game of “over-the-line” in P.E. class.
Ramona High School principal Tony Newman said the teen collapsed on a school field following the incident. He was airlifted to the hospital, where he died a few hours later.
According to a report released by the county medical examiner’s office, Dorman developed shortness of breath following the hit to the chest and “became unresponsive and had seizure-type activity.” Despite aggressive cardiac life support efforts to save Dorman’s life, the teen succumbed to his injuries.
On Thursday, the mood was somber on the Ramona High School campus as students tried to come to terms with Dorman’s unexpected death.
During the school day, his friends shared fond memories of Dorman with NBC 7, remembering what a great person he was and saying how much he will be missed.
His best friend, Navar Findley, told NBC 7 he will never forget Dorman or the important life lesson the teen taught him.
“[Taylor told me] 'Enjoy what you’re doing while you’re doing it, and don’t let anybody put you down because it’s better that you be happy than be worried about what other people think about you,'" said Findley.
Principal Newman, who’s been in communication with Dorman’s family, handed out a letter to students Thursday during the school day inviting them to take part in a vigil on campus later that night organized by Dorman's loved ones.
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The letter said Dorman’s family, friends and classmates would be holding a candlelight vigil in front of Ramona High School on Hanson Lane starting at 7:15 p.m.
Dozens of people showed up to remember Dorman, including the teen's mother, Sue Kohler.
Kohler told NBC 7 that the county medical examiner had told her that her son had an enlarged heart at the time of his death, which could have contributed to his sudden passing.
Loved ones will continue honoring Dorman's life and spirit Friday evening with a special birthday party at Collier Park on East Street in Ramona, according to Newman’s letter.
A memorial fund has been established for Dorman and his family. Those who wish to donate can do so at the Bank of Southern California Ramona branch located at 1315 Main Street by mentioning Dorman's mother, Sue Kohler.
