B.C. slo-pitch player struck in head by ball dies in hospital

A Vancouver Island slo-pitch player has died after he was struck in the head by a ball, according to a post on an online fundraiser organized by friends and family.

Chris Godfrey, 32, was competing in a Comox Valley Slo-pitch League game in Courtenay, B.C. on Aug. 19 when a throw from the shortstop struck him in the head and he collapsed.

He wasn’t wearing a helmet.

READ MORE: B.C. slo-pitch player on life support after being struck in head by ball

He was flown to Victoria General Hospital where he was put on life support.

A message on a Gofundme page set up for Godfrey and his family said he passed away peacefully on Wednesday.

“We would once again like to thank each and every one of you for your love and support during this difficult time and we ask that you please respect the privacy of his family and friends to allow us time to grieve,” the message said.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "We would once again like to thank each and every one of you for your love and support during this difficult time and we ask that you please respect the privacy of his family and friends to allow us time to grieve," the message said.

The tragedy has led some slo-pitch leagues on Vancouver Island to implement a mandatory helmet rule.