A Georgia high school football player was found dead on Sunday, just one day before he was set to play in the state championship.
Brandon Smith, 17, was found Sunday after he was reported missing on Saturday in Meriwether County, about an hour and a half south of Atlanta. Authorities have not released a cause of death.
Officials at Manchester High School confirmed Smith's death in a letter to parents.
"We are heartbroken to hear the news of the tragic and untimely death of one of our student-athletes, Brandon Smith," said the letter from Superintendent Robert Griffin and Principal Suzie Neal. "Manchester High School's celebration of playing for the Georgia Class A Division II State Championship has unfortunately turned into something none of us could have fathomed."
The school called Smith a "loyal teammate and friend who excelled on and off the field." Mental health support is being offered to students.
According to WXIA-TV, Smith was missing for several days before his disappearance was reported to police. The report indicates Smith was shot multiple times.
Police haven't released any further details about Smith's death or information about a possible suspect. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is reportedly assisting local police in the investigation.
Although they honored him at the game, Smith's teammates lost to Bowdon High School 28-27 in the Class A Division II State Championship on Monday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.