TOPEKA (KSNT) – A Highland Park High School freshman is recovering at the University of Kansas Health System after suffering serious burns in a cooking accident—and the Topeka community is stepping up to support him.
Je’raevion King-Grant, a member of the Highland Park baseball team, had just played in a game last Thursday at Hummer Sports Park, helping his team secure a win over J.C. Harmon High School. Just hours later, his night took a devastating turn.
According to teammates, King-Grant was injured in a cooking accident that left roughly 25% of his body covered in third-degree burns. He is now being treated at The University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City.
“I was just with him a couple of hours before,” said freshman teammate Mason Chavez. “It kind of made me upset, thinking that somebody I was just with is now fighting to get healthy again.”
As news of King-Grant’s injuries spread, support quickly poured in from teammates, families and the broader Highland Park community.
“When I found out the severity, it was kind of crazy,” Chavez said. “But I’m glad everybody comes together. It just shows what a great community we have.”
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Although King-Grant wasn’t able to attend this season’s team photo day, his presence is still felt. Teammates say they honor him before every game by holding up two fingers—his jersey number—and wearing eye black in solidarity.
“We hold up the number two because that’s his number,” said teammate Jorge Villa. “He’s still with us.”
Parents have also mobilized to help King-Grant and his family during his recovery. Nicole Richardson, who leads the Highland Park “Mom’s Squad,” created a GoFundMe to assist with expenses and show support.
“You have a community surrounding you,” Richardson said. “Whether that’s bringing a loaf of bread or helping with rides, you’re part of a family. It really is a tight community over here.”
As Highland Park’s head football coach, Jermaine Monroe, puts it, the comeback is always stronger than the setback.
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