South Carolina fifth-grader dies days after classroom fight

WALTERBORO, S.C. — A South Carolina fifth-grader who was hospitalized after a classroom fight earlier this week has died, WCIV reported.

Officials with the Colleton County School District said the Forest Hills Elementary School student, identified as RaNiya Wright, was airlifted to Medical University of South Carolina for treatment after the Monday fight.

RaNiya had been unresponsive and in critical condition since Monday, family members told WCIV.

"We are devastated by this news, and we want our communities to keep their thoughts and prayers with the student's family at this time," a spokesperson wrote on the school district's website.

The district said one student has been suspended while it investigates the fight.

Officials with the Colleton County Sheriff's Office said the department is investigating the fight, which apparently happened between RaNiya and another student. The cause and nature of the fight is unclear.

School district staff deployed a crisis response team to the school on Tuesday to offer support to students and staff.

A GoFundMe account has been set up by the family to support RaNiya's mother in paying for medical and funeral expenses.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Cox Media Group