Community mourns teen basketball star after unexpected death

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Central Virginia community is mourning the death of Jaylen Martinez, a teenager who unexpectedly died earlier this week.

The news of Jaylen's passing was shared by multiple officials, including a letter sent to Liberty Middle School families from Principal Sherry Lycett.

"It is with great sadness that I write to you to share the incredibly painful news that Jaylen Martinez, a rising ninth grader who attended Liberty Middle School, unexpectedly passed away earlier this week," the letter reads in part. "On behalf of the entire Liberty Middle School community, I want to extend our deepest and most sincere sympathies to Jaylen’s family for their devastating and unimaginable loss."

In many of the messages shared on Tuesday, June 24, Jaylen was described as a charismatic and compassionate student.

"Whether on the basketball court or among friends, Jaylen inspired others with a rare blend of kindness, energy, and joy. Jaylen’s smile was contagious, and his laughter unforgettable, making everyone feel part of our Liberty family," Lycett's letter reads. "He and his mother, Ciera, one of our amazing staff members, are truly beloved in our community."

Jaylen was also closely connected to the VCU Basketball community through his father, Joey Rodriguez, who starred as a VCU point guard from 2007 to 2011, before eventually returning to serve as the director of player development beginning in 2017.

"The VCU Basketball family is heartbroken by the sudden passing of Jaylen Martinez," a statement from Ed McLaughlin, vice president and director of athletics, reads. "Through his father, Joey Rodriguez, Jaylen has grown up around our program, and his competitor’s spirit and love of the game endeared him to everyone here who had the opportunity to get to know him. There are no adequate words to dull his loved ones’ pain, but the entire VCU Basketball community stands ready to provide whatever love and support we can to lift the Martinez and Rodriguez families during this devastating time."

Jaylen had committed to Benedictine College Preparatory as part of the school's Class of 2029.

Liberty Middle School will be offering counseling and support to any students struggling throughout the week. The counseling team can be accessed through the main office or by calling 804-365-8060.