White Knoll sophomore Brett Williams, who had verbally committed to play baseball for the University of South Carolina, died on Tuesday at Palmetto Richland in Columbia.

Lexington County coroner Margaret Fisher said the 16-year-old was transported to the hospital after being admitted to the Lexington Medical Center.

The time or cause of death is not yet available. Fisher and staff from the coronor’s office were still at the hospital Tuesday afternoon. Fisher said an autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday. She said there’s no indication of anything suspicious.

Reports from the coroner also said it’s possible Williams died from complications due to illness.
Williams verbally committed with the Gamecocks on Jan. 5. The 6-foot, 185-pound West Columbia native was slated to pitch, play outfield and bat high in the lineup for the Timberwolves this season.

Reaction on Twitter was immediate among friends and Williams’ future head coach Chad Holbrook.
“2day our community lost a great kid, a great son, a great teammate, and a “coaches dream,” he said. “Our heart aches 4 Williams family. God Bless them!”

“Thoughts and prayers to the @WKHSBaseball family,” Lexington baseball coach Brian Hucks said. “Unspeakable tragedy. We are here for you.”

District One announced on Twitter that Northside Baptist has provided a room for gathering for family and friends. Back in August, River Bluff defensive lineman Lewis Simpkins passed away from complications from a heart condition.