KEY WEST, FL – A Florida community is in mourning after the tragic death of Dexter Butler, a high school teacher and basketball coach. Butler’s body was discovered in a storm drain near the gymnasium of Key West High School on Saturday, according to local police.
Early Saturday morning, local police and fire departments were dispatched following reports of an injured person at the high school’s premises. The responders soon located Butler, deceased, within a storm drain near the school gym. As investigations carry on, officials haven’t indicated any suspicion of foul play.
Butler, highly regarded across Monroe County School District, was mourned by the district’s statement after the fatal incident. The district acknowledged that his death was a result of an unfortunate accident and extended its heartfelt condolences to Butler’s family and the students who had interacted with him.
Superintendent Theresa Axford commented on the profound sense of loss felt within the school community, describing the incident as an almost unbearable reality. Axford had earlier informed media outlet Keys Weekly that Butler may have fallen while trying to retrieve some keys from the drain. However, a police spokesperson later suggested that this account might be inaccurate.
During his approximately 14-year tenure in Monroe County School District, Butler taught at Key West High School and Horace O’Bryant Middle School, coaching youth baseball and junior varsity. He was lauded on the middle school’s social media for his significant impact on the school community.
Following the tragedy, support staff have been made available for students and staff to help them cope with the loss. Additionally, students were offered opportunities to express their condolences through cards, messages on large posters, and floral tributes placed near the gym in remembrance of the teacher and coach they held dear.