Pennsylvania referee dies after collapsing during JV basketball game

A Pennsylvania high school referee died after collapsing during halftime of a game over the weekend.

Michael Roebuck, 46, collapsed while refereeing a junior varsity basketball game and later died en route to the hospital. Westmoreland County officials’ chapter assigner Bernie George said paramedics attempted to resuscitate Roebuck for nearly an hour. The cause of death is pending.

A recent story from The Tribune-Review detailed the incident. Below is an excerpt from The Tribune-Review story.

Mt. Pleasant athletic director Allan Bilinsky said that when it was discovered what happened, fans were moved from the gym to the cafeteria and the teams went to the locker rooms.

The second half of the game was canceled, and the varsity game that was supposed to follow was postponed.

“We are so sorry for the loss,” Bilinsky said. “Our training staff did everything possible. We’re all heartbroken over it.”

Gabauer said in a statement Saturday: “Our school community is deeply saddened by the death of Mr. Roebuck during halftime of the junior varsity basketball game. Despite the immediate medical response and efforts of our first responders, Mr. Roebuck tragically passed away due to the severity of the emergency.

“Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies are with Mr. Roebuck’s family and friends.”

To read the full story from The Tribune-Review about the referee collapsing, click here.