One Dead After Fall From Ohio Stadium Stands During Commencement Ceremony

By Bill Galluccio

May 5, 2024

Marshall v Ohio State
Photo: David Maxwell / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images

One person died after falling from Ohio Stadium during Ohio State's spring commencement ceremony on Sunday (May 5) afternoon. The incident happened around 12:30 p.m., about 30 minutes after the commencement ceremony began.

According to the Columbus Dispatchthe person fell from the stands near Gate 30. Photos from the scene showed the area cordoned off by yellow police tape as officers set up a black tent. 

"We are aware of an incident at the stadium during today's commencement. An individual fell from the stands. They are deceased. We have no additional details to share at this time. Police and emergency responders are on scene," university spokesman Ben Johnson said.

"For anyone affected by today's incident, we will make counseling and other support resources available," he added.

Officials have not identified the victim or said what caused them to fall from the stands.

The incident did not impact the ceremony, in which 12,000 graduates were slated to receive their diplomas.

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