A Northern Virginia high school student died suddenly Tuesday from an unknown illness.
Madison Small became ill over the weekend and died Tuesday morning, according to an email from Principal Dave Spage. An autopsy will determine the nature of her illness, the Loudoun Times reported.
Small was a senior at Broad Run High School in Ashburn and played varsity softball for the school. As news of her passing spread, students posted messages of remembrance online and held a vigil in her honor.
"We had a vigil last night that was actually organized by the softball team," Spage told News4. "I didn't count how many people came, but I would say there were 400 to 500 people here, which speaks to her circle and her involvement here."
Those who knew her well are holding on to the fond memories they have of Small.
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"She came into class every day with a positive attitude, a smile on her face. She was kind and empathetic to every student in the classroom," said Lynn Davies, one of Small's teachers. "Everybody just loved her."
Students in one of Small's classes placed flowers on her desk Wednesday in her memory.
Spage said crisis intervention counselors would be at the school to help students for as long as they need it.
While the cause of Small's death remains unknown, an official with the Loudoun County Health Department said they have no information at this point that indicates a risk to others.
