New details surrounding Henry Clay student death, fight video released
A video has turned up that seems to show a Henry Clay High School student breaking up a fight sometime in the days before he died. The video, which was shot by a student, contradicts a statement by…
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Email from Superintendent yesterday:
Dear Fayette County Public Schools Families:
On Friday, May 10, I received heartbreaking news of the passing of Henry Clay High School (HCHS) senior Emmanuel Mwakadi. As shared previously, Emmanuel was transported to a local hospital after a medical emergency during his second-period class.
The loss of such a vibrant young life is unimaginable, especially as graduation approaches. This tragedy deeply affects Emmanuel’s family, teachers, friends, and our entire FCPS and Lexington community. During the past few days, our priority and focus has been on supporting Emmanuel’s family as well as the students and staff at HCHS. However, I realize that all of our FCPS families are shaken by this loss and seeking answers.
I acknowledge that we could have communicated more effectively with families and the Henry Clay community immediately after this event. The decision to delay external communication was made out of respect for the family and everyone impacted by this sudden loss. However, I now understand that this may have contributed to speculation and rumors. I apologize for any confusion this delay may have caused.
Dealing with the death of a student is one of the hardest parts of my role as superintendent, and is the case for any educator. Also, as a parent, my heart breaks for Emmanuel’s mother, and I cannot imagine the grief she is feeling. I continue to keep her and Emmanuel’s family and friends in my prayers.
Initially, I hoped to avoid responding to any speculation or rumors surrounding Emmanuel’s passing. However, out of respect for all FCPS families, I feel compelled to address false reports circulating in the public and news media.
As part of our standard health and safety protocols, we launched an investigation that thoroughly tracked Emmanuel’s movements throughout the building on the morning of Friday, May 10. It is important to clarify that Emmanuel never entered a restroom on May 10, nor was he involved in a fight, or the act of breaking up a fight. Nonetheless, these facts do not lessen the impact of his loss, and we want to move forward by honoring and remembering Emmanuel.
Emmanuel was looking ahead to graduation and preparing for a new chapter in his life. He had plans to attend college and study criminal justice, with aspirations of becoming a police officer. FCPS Police officers at HCHS recalled his frequent and friendly visits to their office. He was never short on questions and was eager to learn about law enforcement and make personal connections with the officers on his campus. Officer David Hart formed a special bond with Emmanuel and told me that he was always smiling and was quick to ask him about his own family or share his excitement for the weekend ahead. His positivity was contagious, and all the officers considered Emmanuel a friend.
Known to many as “Manny,” he had a warm and friendly demeanor that endeared him to everyone he met. Many students, teachers, friends, and staff from Henry Clay have shared similar tributes. He served as the manager of the Boys Soccer team, leaving a lasting impression on his teammates and coaches. He was a friend to many and was often seen talking with a friend in the hallway or smiling and offering encouragement to a classmate. Students are organizing ways to honor Emmanuel’s memory within their school community and during the upcoming graduation ceremonies.
Educators often go above and beyond their duties in the classroom to provide care and support for students, and Emmanuel’s passing has deeply affected many in the HCHS community. I want to recognize the Henry Clay staff for their compassion and support during this difficult time. I am so proud of the way their team came together on May 10 and how they continue to support each other and our students.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to everyone who loved Emmanuel. Thank you to the entire FCPS and Lexington community for the support displayed over the past few days. Your kindness and compassion are a testament to the strength of our community, and we hope Emmanuel’s family finds solace in your support during this difficult time.
