Death at Ohio State graduation: Scene at Ohio Stadium
Ohio State police confirmed that a person died after a fall from Ohio Stadium during the 2024 Ohio State University graduation commencement.
One person has died after falling from the Ohio Stadium during Ohio State University’s graduation ceremony on Sunday.
An officer sent out a call for help over the OSU police radio at around 12:30 p.m., stating, “I need medics and some officers at gate 30 (of Ohio Stadium)… had one fall off the stadium.”
“An individual fell from the stands. They are deceased,” said OSU spokesperson Ben Johnson. “We have no additional details to share at this time. Police and emergency responders are on scene. For anyone affected by today’s incident, we will make counseling and other support resources available.”
The scene of the fall was surrounded with lots of yellow tape and concerned officials, according to Dispatch photographer Doral Chenoweth, who was at the scene.
“No way — that’s unbelievable,” an eyewitness said. The witness said they saw a single person fall and it happened as the last graduates were just filing past that area, as they entered the stadium via the tunnel used by football players during OSU home games.
People in the stands and some students at commencement were visibly upset, according to Dispatch reporter Jordan Laird, who is inside.
The incident has not been mentioned by commencement speakers, who include Chris Pan, a social entrepreneur and OSU alum. Pan spoke about world peace and Bitcoin, among other topics, and sang the song ‘This Little Light of Mine.'”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Christine Lake is a sports fanatic who lives and breathes athletics. With an extensive background in sports journalism, he covers everything from major league championships to grassroots sports events. When she’s not on the field or at the stadium, you’ll find Christine coaching youth sports teams.
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