DUNWOODY, Ga. - An 11-year-old girl, Emanuela Datsa, has died following a school basketball practice at Peachtree Middle School, prompting her family to seek answers after an inconclusive initial autopsy. Emanuela passed away last week shortly after being taken to a hospital. Her father, Selom Datsa, reported that she had no underlying health conditions and described the basketball practice as not physically demanding.
Read More
"They were not doing any tedious exercise, and it was indoors," Selom Datsa said. He noted that Emanuela mentioned feeling funny shortly before she collapsed, but did not complain of any pain.
The DeKalb County School District confirmed that grief counselors are being made available for students and staff at Peachtree Middle School. "The entire DeKalb County School District community, especially the Peachtree Middle School family, mourns the passing of a 6th grade student. Our hearts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time," the district stated.
Emanuela was remembered by her family as an active and loving child who enjoyed singing, dancing, and basketball. She is survived by a brother and two older sisters. "One thing about her that is still breaking my heart right now is that she loved unconditionally," Selom Datsa said. "It doesn’t matter if she knows you or not. She will offer to help you." The family is struggling to cope with her sudden loss.
Selom Datsa expressed a desire for his daughter to be remembered with a message of unity, stating, "You see your fellow human being by your side, it doesn’t have to be your brother or sister—just love and do good."
The cause of Emanuela's death remains unknown as the family awaits further medical testing. They have also established a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses.