6 hours ago
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A much-loved softball umpire known as 'Uncle Mitch' has died after collapsing during a South Carolina youth tournament.
Mitchell Huggins, 61, was rushed to hospital on Saturday afternoon after falling ill and passing out while officiating a game at Sumter Park, according to reports.
He was pronounced dead at around 6pm at Prisma Health Tuomey Hospital. Sumter County Coroner's Office later revealed to WACH-TV that the cause of death was heat stroke.
County Coroner Robbie Baker said: 'People don't realize what heat does to a body, especially if you're properly hydrated the day before'.
It's reported that temperatures reached 90 Fahrenheit on the day, however, photos taken of a thermometer on the turf showed it registered at 182.5 degrees.
Huggins' sister, Pamela Rufus, has since confirmed that funeral services for the softball coach will be held on Saturday afternoon.
A much-loved softball umpire known as 'Uncle Mitch' has died after collapsing in the heat
Mitchell Huggins was rushed to hospital on Saturday and was pronounced dead around 6pm
Speaking to WIS, Rufus revealed that she was able to FaceTime her sibling when he momentarily regained consciousness before then passing out again.
She later added: 'He just did what he did. I don't think he looked at temperature. He felt temperature, but he didn't look at temperature'.
Another bystander told KARE-TV: 'He said he was hot. They tried to cool him down and got him some water. They finally called the ambulance, put him in a wheelchair, and rolled him down to the entrance of the ball field. He just slumped over'.
Meanwhile, a Go Fund Me page set up for Huggins' family described the softball coach as 'not just an umpire'.
'He was a prominent figure in our community, recognized for his contagious smile and unwavering commitment. His passion for the game of softball and the people involved was always evident.
'His generosity, kindness, and encouragement have left a huge impact on countless individuals. He played a pivotal role in shaping the lives of numerous players, coaches, and officials. The number of lives Mitch positively influenced is immeasurable'.
'Mr. Mitch has a large family several of whom umpired with him. He often talked about his 14-year-old son Sheldon Hugging who's birthday is just a few short days away on July 4th and fiancé Margret McFadden among many others'.
