2 RHS athletes hurt during Mummies season finale

On a fundraising night for Richmond High School football, two RHS athletes were injured at a community event, one of them critically.

Richmond High School’s football program and Richmond Flying Mummies baseball team both issued statements Sunday, Aug. 9, about the incident during the Mummies’ season finale on Saturday, Aug. 8.

The athletes were injured during a fan contest between innings of the game at Don McBride Stadium. This was the first season for the Mummies, a member of the Northwoods League collegiate summer baseball league.

RHS officials said one student was critically injured during an “extremely unfortunate event” and that both players and their families face an incredibly difficult time.

Students and players needing support can receive counseling services at RHS on Monday, Aug. 10. School officials strongly encourage anyone struggling, feeling overwhelmed or who simply need to talk with someone, to take advantage of available resources. They also encourage students to talk with trusted loved ones or seek professional guidance if they need help processing what happened.

Both the Mummies and RHS asked the community for thoughts and prayers for both athletes and their families, teammates, coaches and others impacted.

Mummies staff expressed gratitude to Richmond Fire Department, Reid Health EMS, on-site medical personnel and all first responders, describing an immediate and professional response. They also thanked fans, staff, players and community members for showing compassion, concern and support.

Fan Appreciation Night had begun on a cheerful note with the Mummies in the lead and Hagerstown graduate Kaagen Kendall as the starting pitcher. Some in the stands had purchased tickets through a promotion giving $5 of the $15 price to Red Devils football. The Mummies offered that promotion to several nonprofits throughout the season.

The game was halted after the incident; Mummies won 2-1.