MONTGOMERY, Texas – A Montgomery family is grieving the unexpected death of 15-year-old Kaleb Hill, an incoming high school freshman who collapsed from a fatal heart attack just days after receiving a routine sports physical.
Kaleb had recently joined the junior varsity football team at Montgomery High School alongside his brother, Kason. The two were looking forward to their first season. But before official practices began, tragedy struck.
“My last memory with Kaleb was when they picked up their football gear,” said Kaleb’s sister, Nadija Hill. “Our other brother Kishon was pretending like he was giving them NFL interviews. All I could see was that bright, beautiful smile of his.”
Later that day, Kaleb began showing signs of dehydration while playing at home. Moments later, he collapsed. Emergency responders were unable to revive him.
The Hill family later learned Kaleb had an undiagnosed genetic heart condition—an abnormal cardiac artery—that likely contributed to his death. According to the family, Kaleb’s salt levels were elevated and he didn’t have enough fluids in his system, a dangerous combination in the Texas summer heat.
“His condition couldn’t have been caught by a basic physical,” said Nadija. “You need a scan from a cardiologist. An EKG isn’t enough.”
Now, the Hill family is turning their grief into action. They’re calling on other parents—and schools—to push for more comprehensive health evaluations for student-athletes ahead of regular sports seasons.
“Kaleb had just passed his physical,” said sister Micah Hill. “But it wasn’t enough. Please go get your kids checked and save yourself from this heartbreak.”
Currently, Texas requires student-athletes to undergo a physical in their freshman and junior years. While EKGs can be requested, they are not standard practice.
Kaleb Hill’s funeral services are scheduled for this Saturday. His family is encouraging anyone with student-athletes to learn from their tragedy and take the extra steps needed to ensure their child’s safety.
Montgomery ISD also released a statement:
“The Montgomery ISD community is deeply saddened by the passing of Kaleb Hill, an incoming freshman at Montgomery High School.
Kaleb was known for his kind heart, his love for his family, and his excitement about becoming a part of the Montgomery High School Bear community. He was preparing to join the MHS Bear Football program this fall and was looking forward to representing his school on the field. Kaleb had a wide circle of friends, and his warm personality and ability to connect with others left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
He loved his family deeply - especially his brothers and sisters - and held a special place in his heart for his grandparents. Kaleb was truly loved by many and will be deeply missed.
We extend our deepest condolences to Kaleb’s family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched."