A Georgia teen, 16, had passed away after being forced to practice basketball drills at school during a 2019 warm summer day that saw temperatures soaring to 106 degrees.
Imani Bell died of hyperthermia and rhabdomyolysis on August 13, 2019 after Elite Scholars Academy Coaches Larosa Maria Walker-Asekere and Dwight Broom Palmer forced her to keep training despite the suffocating heat.
“The assistant coach saw Imani struggling and how hot it was and did not stop the practice,” Att. Justin Miller said adding that Imani was ordered to run up and down a flight of stairs.
“Due to the extreme heat and humidity outside, Imani began experiencing early signs of heat illness and was visibly struggling to physically perform the outdoor conditioning drills defendants directed her to perform.
“Defendants observed Imani experiencing early signs of heat illness during the outdoor practice but nevertheless directed Imani to continue performing the conditioning drills with her team and directed Imani to run up the stadium steps.”
The victim’s family is suing several school officials involved in the deadly incident. Imani’s mom said that they need closure.
“We need that. That’s part of our healing,” she said.
