Girl, 17, dies during band practice at her New York high school 

The girl, identified by family as Maddie Sparrow, died in front of 90 fellow students at Sachem East High School in Long Island on Monday night

A 17-year-old girl who died after she collapsed during band practice at her New York high school is being remembered by loved ones as a ‘sweet and loving person’. 

The girl, identified by family as Maddie Sparrow, died in front of 90 fellow students at Sachem East High School in Long Island on Monday night. 

She was participating in band practice when authorities say she suffered a medical incident and collapsed.

The student, who was an incoming senior at Sachem North High School, was rushed to hospital where she was pronounced dead. 

A cause of death has not yet been determined by the medical examiner. 

Maddie’s sibling Emily posted a tribute on social media, describing the teen as her rock, soul and beloved sister.

‘God decided he needed a bright and untouched soul like yours in Heaven and I know you’re the happiest you’ve ever been,’ she wrote. 

‘My faith in God has been tested tremendously throughout the past couple years but I now have faith that you’re looking down on us while you’re in complete peace. 

She was participating in band practice at Sachem East High School when authorities say she suffered a medical incident and collapsed

She was participating in band practice at Sachem East High School when authorities say she suffered a medical incident and collapsed

Maddie's sibling Emily (above on right) posted a tribute on social media, describing the teen as her rock, soul and beloved sister

Maddie’s sibling Emily (pictured left with Maddie) posted a tribute on social media, describing the teen as her rock, soul and beloved sister

‘On behalf of Maddie, I would like to say that she would want everyone to celebrate her life and be happy because of where she is right now. I’ll see you soon my angel. Rest In Peace.’

Friends also took to social media to remember her as a ‘sweet and loving person’.

Sachem Superintendent Kenneth Graham confirmed the girl’s death in a statement on the district’s website. 

‘It is with deep sorrow that the district has learned that an incoming senior at Sachem North High School tragically passed away last night,’ he said.  

‘Our thoughts and prayers are with the individual’s family and friends during this difficult time. Support services will be available as of 8am today at both high schools.’

An 11th grader died at the same school last year when he was struck by a falling log that he and a football teammate were carrying during a training summer camp. 



Read more at DailyMail.co.uk