Carter Stone, who played offensive lineman for the Agoura Chargers, died after going in for what was believed to be routine surgery on his shoulder. Friends and family say he went into cardiac arrest during the surgery.
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Doctors found a tumor on his heart, likely caused by undiagnosed T-cell leukemia, the Acorn reported.
A GoFundMe page has been established to help the Stone family.
"Carter was known for his sense of humor, kindness and work ethic," a friend of the Stone family wrote on the GoFundMe. "He was a dedicated football player looking forward to his career at Agoura High School."
The Los Angeles Rams have also reached out about helping the family, a Rams spokesperson confirmed to ABC7. The team maintains its corporate headquarters in Agoura Hills.
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Retired Rams offensive tackle Andrew Whitworth is friendly with the Stone family. Carter's father is the soccer coach for Whitworth's daughter's youth team. Whitworth has donated $7,600 to the team.
The team paid respect to Stone on Twitter, writing: "A moment of silence for Carter. A lone helmet for 76. We sadly yet proudly honor our teammate and friend, Carter Stone. Our entire community is devastated as we mourn his passing and support his incredible family. Carter loved football and we loved him."