The St. Paul Central High School student who was taken to the hospital Monday after a medical emergency has died, school officials said Wednesday.

Central Principal Mary Mackbee sent a letter to parents after the incident Monday and again Wednesday, telling them of Fischer Anderson's death.

"This is a devastating loss and our hearts go out to the family," she wrote. "Each of us will react to Fischer's passing in our own way.

"When a child dies, young people may be filled with sadness, fear and anger. Our school support team of counselors and social workers will be available to talk with students who are worried or upset in the days and weeks ahead.

Mackbee said Fischer's family said he had been suffering from depression "for some time." He is an organ donor "and will be giving the gift of life so that others may live," the letter said.

"As your child works through their emotions, try to give reassurance and to understand their feelings," it said. "If you feel they are having a particularly difficult time, please call our school for support."

Little information about the incident has been released. St. Paul Fire Marshal Steve Zaccard said Monday that the fire department was dispatched to the school about 1:15 p.m. and found someone in cardiac arrest. The person was treated at the scene and transported to Regions Hospital. A police spokesman said the incident was not a criminal matter and police were not involved.

School records show that Fischer played soccer for several seasons at Central.

Pat Pheifer