A Long Island high school student died during a school trip to California, according to a published report.
Newsday reports Seaford High School trumpet player Joseph Tutaj went to Los Angeles last week to perform with his marching band. He was pronounced dead Wednesday after being admitted to a hospital with a high fever.
Tutaj's parents told the newspaper he called home a few days ago and complained about being sick.
The 6-foot-2 sophomore was described as a gentle giant. His death comes during a tough time: Tutaj's father is reportedly battling Stage 4 cancer and his family was displaced after Sandy.
