A popular 17-year-old football player from Manchester High School in Manchester, Georgia was found dead on Sunday morning, December 10, 2023, casting a dark shadow over what was to be a celebratory time for his team.
Brandon Smith’s death occurred just a day before his team lost a thrilling 28-27 game to Bowdon High School in the Georgia IA State Football Championship. This was Manchester’s first appearance in the title game in over 25 years.
Police have not disclosed the details of Smith’s death however the boy’s grandmother, Maxine Smith, told a local Atlanta news outlet that her grandson had been missing since Thursday night. She had been informed on Sunday morning by his football coach, Stephen Holmes, that the boy’s body was found close to 3rd Street in Manchester. It was her understanding that he had been found shot to death.
Manchester Schools Superintendent Robert Griffin and Manchester High School Principal Suze Neal expressed their deep sorrow in a joint statement, acknowledging the profound impact of Smith’s loss on the school and local community.
The local authorities, including the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, are investigating the circumstances of Smith’s death. They were called in to assist the Manchester Police Department with crime scene processing.
Smith, who played defensive line on the team, is being remembered as a loyal teammate and friend, lauded for his achievements both on and off the field.
The district has announced that mental health support will be available for students, staff, and the community starting Monday. During this difficult time, the school and district officials continue to offer their prayers and support to Smith’s family, friends, teammates, and classmates.
