Newton Teen Dies Weeks After Collapsing During Basketball Game

NEWTON, MA — Preston Settles, the 15-year-old Newton resident who collapsed in early February during a basketball game, died on Sunday, reported CBS Boston.

Settles was playing in a game at the Brooks School in North Andover on February 5 when he suddenly collapsed and stopped breathing. He was rushed to Lawrence General Hospital and then flown to Tufts Medical Center, where he was put on life support. He was later transferred to Boston Children’s Hospital, where he died on Sunday.

“Our wonderful, previously healthy, handsome, and perpetually happy son Preston Blair Settles has transitioned to his next journey,” said Settles’ family in a statement. "During the last twenty two days after collapsing on a basketball court in North Andover, MA, he has been nothing less than a spartan fighter up until the very end."

“We want to thank our dear sweet Preston for being a an amazing son and incredible human being during his short fifteen years on this earth,” they continued. "Hats off to you buddy for living it LARGE and maximizing your time. Those that know you well, know that you were awesome, smart, hard worker, adventurous, funny, a true friend, and a loving brother.”

A celebration of Settles’ life will be held on Friday, March 4 at Trinity Church in Boston’s Copley Square. Viewing hours are from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and a service will follow.