ASHLAND, Ohio — The Ashland County Coroner's Office has determined a cause of death for the Mapleton High School student who collapsed and died during homecoming festivities this past fall.
Investigator Jennifer Taylor confirms to 3News that Bre McKean, 17, died after suffering from myocarditis caused by rhino/enterovirus. Specifically, the Mayo Clinic (which Taylor cited) describes myocarditis as inflammation of the heart muscle, which can weaken the heart and cause it to not get enough blood.
McKean was a member of Mapleton's 2023 homecoming court, and was slated to take part in pregame ceremonies prior to the Mounties' homecoming football bout against South Central on Sept. 29. During the celebration, however, McKean collapsed on the field during what was described as a "medical emergency" and later passed away.
"The family of Bre McKean always knew that Bre was extremely special, but they didn't realize the extent to which so many other people saw Bre as special too," Bre's family said in a statement days after her death. "The McKean family would like to express their heartfelt and sincere appreciation to the Mapleton community and beyond for their outpouring of love, support, and prayers during this difficult time."
Per the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of myocarditis can include trouble breathing, chest pain, lightheadedness, and an irregular heartbeat, among other things. Most cases are not serious and end up clearing up on their own, but more severe cases can lead to permanent heart damage, heart attack, stroke, or even death.
Causes of myocarditis can vary widely, and while officials mentioned rhino/enterovirus Taylor tells WKYC there is no way to determine exactly what caused McKean's conditions. While myocarditis has been linked to things like drugs, bacteria, or parasites, it can often be caused by viruses like hepatitis, common colds, and even COVID-19.
Health experts have also linked COVID-19 vaccines to a "rare" increase in myocarditis cases, particularly in boys and men ages 12-29. Despite this, the Mayo Clinic and other agencies still recommend being up to date on your coronavirus shots, with studies noting the risk of heart inflammation is actually higher in those infected by COVID than those who have gotten the vaccine.
It is suggested that residents should talk to their health care providers about the benefits and risks of the vaccine. It is unknown if McKean even got the shot.
Taylor says the investigation into McKean's death is now closed, since the specific cause of her myocarditis cannot be determined. In honor of her life and legacy, loved ones have established the Bre McKean Memorial Scholarship Fund, and donations can still be made here.