Division II College Running Back MicahJo Barnett Tragically Passes Away Shortly After Scoring Touchdown

Fox 4 Kansas City

Williams Jewell running back MicahJo Barnett scores a touchdown in the first quarter of a game against Fort Lewis College.

The college football world, particularly those at Division II William Jewell College in Missouri, are in a state of shock and mourning following the death of junior running back MicahJo Barnett on Saturday.

Barnett suited up for the Cardinals in Saturday’s season-opener against Fort Lewis College. He scored a touchdown in the first quarter, but suffered a medical emergency shortly after. He was later transported by ambulance to a local hospital. Medical professionals pronounced him dead at the hospital.

The school posted a message on its athletics website announcing the tragic news.

“Jewell Mourns Loss of Football Student-Athlete MicahJo Barnett,” the headline read.

Forever a Cardinal 💔

William Jewell & the Liberty community mourn the passing of junior MicahJo Barnett.

Our thoughts & prayers are with MicahJo’s family, teammates, friends, & coaches.

A vigil will be held tonight on the Jewell quad at 8 p.m. in honor of MicahJo & family. pic.twitter.com/SXAXSGcdD4

— William Jewell Athletics (@JewellCardinals) August 29, 2026

William Jewell College Mourns Heartbreaking Loss Of MicahJo Barnett

“William Jewell College and the Liberty, Missouri community mourn the passing of Micah Jo Barnett, a junior business administration and member of Jewell Cardinal football program and former Liberty North Eagle,” the statement began.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Micah Jo’s family, our students, the Cardinal Football family, and the rest of our community during this time of loss.

“Students and staff are encouraged to connect with Counseling Services and/or the office of the Chaplain, who are ready to provide support to those who need it.

“A vigil will be held tonight on the quad at 8 p.m. in honor of MicahJo and his family. Funeral arrangements will be shared when available.”

The school added that it was unaware of any pre-existing conditions that may have led to the medical emergency. The game was suspended and ultimately canceled.

David Ubben of The Athletic reports that Barnett was born in Shawnee Mission, Kansas. He had six siblings. Barnett played his high school football for Liberty North in Missouri, leading the team to a state championship.