A Kentucky high school athlete who was just weeks shy of turning 17 was killed in a vehicular crash last week, authorities and school officials said. 

Cayleb Rice, a student who attended Wayne County High School in Monticello, Ky., died on Friday, July 25, Wayne County Schools confirmed in a social media post.

Describing the loss as “tragic,” the school’s statement read, “Cayleb was a valued member of the Wayne County School District family, and his loss has left an undeniable void in our community.”

According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Rice was driving on KY Highway 1275 when his vehicle went off the road and hit a tree stump, CBS affiliate WKYT reported. Upon impact, Rice was ejected from the car. 

The local outlet further reported that the Pulaski County Deputy Coroner pronounced Rice dead from blunt force trauma at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital.

Wayne County High School Football Coach Tyler Guffey told the Lexington Herald-Leader that Rice, a sophomore who played for the school’s football and basketball teams, succumbed to his injuries from the crash. 

“Cayleb is one of those guys who did everything he did wholeheartedly. It didn’t matter if it was on the field, on the court, in the classroom or just in life. He was a great kid,” Guffey said.

Wayne County Schools said that Rice will be remembered for “his bright spirit, kind smile, love for sports, tremendous work ethic and the positive impact he had on those around him.”

The Monticello Police Department also paid tribute to Rice in a statement that read, in part: “Cayleb Rice —full of promise, kindness, and potential—was taken far too soon in a single-vehicle accident. There are no words that can truly capture the depth of sorrow felt by family, friends, classmates, teachers, and all who knew and loved him.”

According to a published obituary, Rice would have turned 17 on August 18. He is survived by his parents and two brothers.  

“He enjoyed playing basketball and football and spending time with his family and friends,” the obituary read. “He also loved working on the farm with his uncles, his Pop, and his cousins. His favorite people to be with were his brothers. Cayleb loved his family and friends but he was happiest on the court or field.”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.  

Wayne County High School announced on Saturday, July 26, that its gym would be open that day at noon for students and community members to gather and grieve for Rice. 

Meanwhile, Wayne County Schools said that counseling services will continue to be offered to students and staff in the coming days to help them “cope with this devastating loss.”

PEOPLE reached out the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office for additional information on Monday, July 28.