FIU student dies after collapsing while playing basketball

MIAMI ā€“ A student at Florida International University died at a hospital after collapsing while playing basketball at the school's main campus, an FIU spokeswoman said Friday in a news release.

"The FIU family is saddened to learn of the death of one of our students who collapsed while playing basketball on FIU's MMC campus and later passed away at the hospital," Maydel Santana said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."

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A memorial service hosted by FIU's Residential Life will take place from 7-8 p.m. March 1 in the University Towers West Wing Lounge. Officials said there will be directional signs close to the Quad Pool.

The student, identified as Marc Altidor, was a senior at FIU pursuing a bachelor's degree in biological sciences.

"At the memorial service, there will be an opportunity to share thoughts, memories, poems, and/or stories," a message read on a post on FIU Housing & Residential Life's Instagram account. "Marc's family members plan to attend the memorial service if you wish to personally offer the family condolences."

A GoFundMe account has been set up.

Santana said students in need of support can contact the school's Counseling and Psychological Services at 305-348-2277.


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