FAMU Drum Major Dies after Florida Classic Performance

A drum major at the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University died after suffering from respiratory problems following his performance at the Florida Classic Game in Orlando.

Robert Champion, a 26-year old who was marching in the Florida Classic band, became unresponsive in a parking lot outside the Rosen Plaza Hotel where the band were staying.

Champion started to throw up and complain about his breathing in a bus parked outside the Hotel on International Drive just before 10 pm on Saturday. His friends performed CPR and called the paramedics but by the time Champion reached Dr. Phillips Hospital he was reported dead.

He was a great person, outstanding leader, very fine musician with very good character, said Dr. Julian White, the marching band's director, in a statement.

The Orange Country Sherriff's Department are investing the death but have issued a statement saying that they did no suspect foul play.

Many people have offered their condolences on the site Bandhead.org. Some speculate it to be from a heart attack, others speculate hazing. He had just finished his first year as drum major, but accidentally dropped his mace on the field. This really isn't a good look for HBCU Bands at all. Regardless, our prayers are out with the family of Robert Champion, read a post by Orange and Green

Champion is an Atlanta-native who was studying for a Music Technology and Education major.

Champion's friend, Abyon Mcinnis, told Fox News that it's a somber day for students from Florida A & M University. He's been in the band ever since I've been in there. That's just crazy to me, Abyon said. ,