CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The cause of death remains undetermined for a Myers Park High School student who passed away in his sleep, according to an autopsy report.
Benjamin Hager was found unresponsive in bed by a family member in January.
"Based on the history and autopsy findings, it is my opinion that the cause of death, in this case, remains undetermined," the report read. "Injury and obvious natural disease that can result in sudden unexpected death have been excluded."
Hager's sudden death hit the swim community especially hard as Hager was a standout athlete.
The 16-year-old made the varsity swim team at Myers Park High in addition to swimming with SwimMAC Carolina in Ballantyne.
The day before he died, Hager practiced with his teammates at Swim Mac; they told NBC Charlotte that Hager seemed fine.
Hager’s family described him as optimistic, saying he often spoke of the future and his plans to become an entrepreneur.
Hager was survived by his mom, dad, and two younger brothers. His family created a scholarship fund in honor of him. Donations were accepted at Myers Park Presbyterian Church.