Ohio high school lacrosse player dies from injuries
- A 16-year-old lacrosse player suffered a fatal injury during a game after being struck in the head by the ball.
- Dylan Veselic was a sophomore at Bay Village High School and underwent surgery but did not survive.
- The community has rallied in support, expressing grief and solidarity through various tributes and fundraising efforts.
In Ohio, a tragic incident occurred during a high school lacrosse game when 16-year-old Dylan Veselic suffered a severe injury. On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, during a game held in Olmsted Falls, Veselic was struck in the back of the head by a lacrosse ball, hitting him just below the helmet. This unfortunate accident prompted immediate medical attention; he was rushed to a nearby hospital where he underwent surgery to address the critical injuries sustained. Despite the efforts of the medical team, Veselic succumbed to his injuries on May 8, 2025. The Bay Village High School community has been profoundly affected by the loss of this bright student and athlete. He was known for his dedication both in his academics and on the lacrosse field, having played for the varsity team as both a freshman and a sophomore, and was a captain on the team. The tragic outcome has left his family, friends, and teammates heartbroken. The school district has provided counseling services to support students, staff, and families grappling with the impact of this incident. In a statement released by his family, they conveyed their gratitude for the overwhelming support received from the community during this difficult time. They highlighted Dylan’s positive spirit and commitment towards his teammates and studies. Community members have shown their solidarity by leaving sports equipment, including lacrosse sticks and hockey sticks, outside their homes as a tribute to Veselic. A fundraiser established in his honor has also garnered significant support, raising over $80,000 to aid the family. In the aftermath of this tragic event, immediate discussions about safety measures in sports, particularly in high-impact games like lacrosse, have begun to surface. Advocates for player safety emphasize the importance of protective gear to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. As the Bay Village lacrosse team mourns the loss of their teammate, they have respectfully canceled their scheduled game planned for the day of his death, instead gathering for a prayer service to honor Veselic's memory. The team is set to play again on May 13, 2025, as they continue to cope with the tragedy.