William Jewell RB MicahJo Barnett dies after medical emergency

MicahJo Barnett, 20, a William Jewell College running back and business administration major, died after a sideline medical emergency moments after scoring a touchdown in the season opener against Fort Lewis College in Liberty, Missouri. The game was paused and canceled as Barnett was transported to a hospital, where he died; the cause of death has not been released publicly at the time of reporting. The Liberty community mourned his passing, with tributes from administrators, coaches, and teammates, and a candlelight vigil was held on campus; counseling services and chaplain resources were offered to students and staff. A GoFundMe to help his family had raised over $30,000 by late reporting. Barnett had previously helped Liberty North High School win a state title and led William Jewell with rushing yards in the prior season. The university announced a celebration of life on what would have been his 21st birthday, September 5.