GoFundMe page launched for family of football star, 20, who died during season opener… after horrific incident sent shockwaves through the sport

Tens of thousands of dollars have already poured into a GoFundMe page for the family of the tragic college football star who died after scoring a touchdown on the opening day of the new season.

MicahJo Barnett was playing at running back for Division II team William Jewell College in Liberty, Missouri on Saturday when he collapsed on the sideline immediately after scoring a touchdown against Fort Lewis.

Paramedics from the Liberty Fire Department rushed to his aid at around 12.20pm and transported him to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Tributes have since poured in for the 20-year-old football talent, and a GoFundMe was set up to help his family with the unexpected costs associated with his funeral and memorial services.

As of 2pm ET on Sunday, more than $17,000 had been sent to the page, which was created by a woman who claims to be a former youth coach and family friend of Barnett.

The page reads: ‘It is with incredibly heavy hearts that we ask for your help in honoring the life of Micah Jo. Micah was a talented and kind young man who was loved by so many.

‘Just recently, he had the incredible moment of scoring a touchdown for his team. Micah’s life was taken far too soon, leaving his family, friends, teammates, and community heartbroken.’ 

Footage shared on social media Saturday showed him running in his final score and celebrating with teammates before tragedy struck with 4:32 left in the first quarter and the score still 7-0 to the Cardinals. 

According to Fox News KC, the 20-year-old suffered ‘seizure-like symptoms’ on the sidelines. The game was suspended as William Jewell players were seen crying and consoling one another before his passing was confirmed.

No cause of death has yet been revealed, while a statement from the school read: ‘William Jewell College and the Liberty, Missouri community mourn the passing of Micah Jo Barnett, a junior business administration and member of Jewell Cardinal football program and former Liberty North Eagle.

‘Our thoughts and prayers are with Micah Jo’s family, our students, the Cardinal Football family, and the rest of our community during this time of loss.

‘Students and staff are encouraged to connect with Counseling Services and/or the office of the Chaplain who are ready to provide support to those who need it.

‘A vigil will be held tonight on the quad at 8 p.m. in honor of MicahJo and his family. Funeral arrangements will be shared when available.’

Sharing the news alongside a black-and-white graphic of Barnett, the school said: ‘Forever a Cardinal.’