Person dies after falling from the stands at Ohio State graduation ceremony
A person fell from the stands at a football stadium during an Ohio State University graduation ceremony and died Sunday, university officials confirmed.
Tragic Incident at Ohio State University Graduation Ceremony
During Ohio State University's graduation ceremony at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, a person fell from the stands on Sunday and unfortunately passed away, as confirmed by university officials. Benjamin Johnson, a representative for the university, shared this devastating news in an email to CNN on Monday. While the university did not have any additional details to provide at that time, they expressed their condolences for the loss. The identity of the individual who died has not yet been made available.
Graduation Ceremony Details
The commencement ceremony took place at Ohio Stadium, a renowned venue with a seating capacity of over 100,000 people. Guests were seated in multiple levels of bleachers, which surround the horseshoe-shaped stadium. Video footage posted by Ohio State showcased the event and the layout of the stadium.
During the ceremony, Ohio State University awarded an impressive 12,555 degrees and certificates to students from all 50 states and over 100 countries. The designated commencement speaker for the event was Chris Pan, a social entrepreneur, musician, and inspirational speaker.
Support for Those Affected
In light of this tragic incident, Ohio State University is diligently working to make counseling and other support resources available to anyone who has been affected. Benjamin Johnson emphasized the university's commitment to providing assistance during this difficult time.
Stadium Safety and Renovations
Stadium deaths, though unfortunate, are not unheard of, especially as stadiums are being constructed to accommodate larger crowds. Ohio Stadium, which was initially built in 1922, could seat approximately 66,000 people. Over the years, the stadium has undergone several renovations, including the addition of extra seating and the installation of railings, all aimed at enhancing safety measures, as reported by Ohio State.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals attending large-scale events.