Keagan Lucas Passed After An Unexpected Downturn in Health

Gaston County (WNN) - Keagan Lucas, a 15-year-old sophomore at East Gaston High School, passed away on March 26, 2026, after an unexpected downturn in his health. His mother, Sam Sutherland, kept the community updated on Lucas throughout the process. On March 21, 2026, he was taken to Levine Children’s Hospital after what was thought to be the flu was identified as a brain infection. Despite emergency surgery to relieve pressure from his brain and a reduction in swelling, he unfortunately passed yesterday evening. The loss of such an active youth always sends ripples across a community, and in this case, it is an overwhelming outcry of support for the family.

East Gaston Athletics noted Lucas as someone who made an impact on everyone around him and as a proud, strong teammate. East Gaston began hosting events, including Letters for Lucas and Prayers at the Park, to show how strongly he was supported in this time of need. Not only did his family and school do all they could, but the community came together with fundraisers to help him get well. Forestview High School began a fundraiser during a baseball game in attempts to raise funds for Lucas. A GoFundMe was started and has raised $7,000 in support of the family. Lucas was not only actively involved in school sports, but also in dirt track racing with David Lucas, and many speedways have shown their support for the family as well.

For further WNN articles and news stories, visit https://wisenewsnetwork.com

For more WNN video news stories, visit YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wisenewsnetwork

Contact WNN at newsdesk@wisenewsnetwork.com

North Carolina Press Association Member