At a Glance
- Damarius Nalik Galarza, 18, died in his sleep Saturday night from a medical event
- The Cedar Crest High senior was an honor roll student, football player, and track athlete
- He had just earned his driver’s license and planned to study construction management at Penn Tech
- Why it matters: His sudden death has left the Lebanon, Pennsylvania, community mourning a young life filled with promise
A Pennsylvania high school is grieving after Damarius Nalik Galarza, 18, died unexpectedly in his sleep over the weekend.
The Cornwall-Lebanon School District confirmed the senior at Cedar Crest High School in Lebanon “passed away Saturday night as a result of a medical event,” according to a district statement.
A Life of Promise Cut Short
Galarza’s mother, Michelle Franco, announced her son’s death in a GoFundMe campaign, writing that the 6-foot-4 athlete “died in his sleep” and calling him “a truly special young man.”
“The loss has left our family heartbroken, and we are trying to find our way through this unimaginable pain,” Franco said.
Beyond football and track, Galarza:
- Carried honor roll status
- Worked as a cook at Wendy’s
- Loved fishing, skateboarding, rollerblading, and biking
- Adored his niece and cheered for the Philadelphia Eagles
He had recently secured his driver’s license and looked ahead to fall classes at Penn Tech in Williamsport, where he intended to major in construction management.
Community Reacts
District officials extended condolences, stating, “On behalf of our entire school district community, we extend our deepest sympathy to Damarius’ family and friends during this very difficult time.”
Franco remembered her son’s generous spirit, noting, “My son was always willing to help anyone, and his kindness touched so many lives.”
She added, “His presence filled every room with warmth and joy.”
Key Takeaways
- Galarza’s death marks the second student loss for Cedar Crest High this academic year, amplifying the campus’s sense of sorrow
- The family’s GoFundMe seeks support for funeral expenses as they navigate sudden tragedy
- Counselors have been made available to students and staff affected by the loss
