‘Heartbreaking beyond words.’ 12-year-old student dies in Southeastern Kentucky

A 12-year-old Southeastern Kentucky boy died Tuesday, Floyd County School District officials confirmed.

The boy was identified as Diesel Miller, a sixth grade student at Allen Elementary School and former attendee of May Valley Elementary.

“We can confirm that a student passed away. I can’t confirm the cause. We have counselors at the schools for students and staff,” district spokesperson Bobby Akers told the Herald-Leader Wednesday morning.

The district wrote in a Facebook post that support staff would be at Allen Elementary and May Valley Elementary “to provide assistance to any student or staff member who may need support in processing this loss.”

“We encourage families to talk with their children and reach out if additional support is needed,” the district wrote. “The loss of one of our students is heartbreaking beyond words. Our thoughts and prayers are with this child’s family, friends, and all who are grieving.”

The group Young Life Eastern Kentucky wrote in a Facebook post Tuesday: “Floyd County students, we are praying for you tonight. You are loved.”

This story was originally published April 29, 2026 at 8:36 AM.