Ohio State soccer player Nathan Demian injured by stray bullet in campus shooting
- Nathan Demian was shot by a stray bullet during a shooting incident involving two vehicles.
- He is recovering in the hospital, with serious injuries but expected to survive.
- The Ohio State soccer community is rallying around him, highlighting concerns about gun violence.
In a concerning incident early Sunday morning near Ohio State University, Nathan Demian, a junior defender for the men's soccer team from Vancouver, British Columbia, was shot while he was merely an innocent bystander. The shooting occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m. on Chittenden Avenue, where two vehicles were reportedly chasing each other and firing shots. During this chaotic event, a stray bullet struck Demian, causing serious injuries that required hospitalization. Thankfully, he was noted to be in serious but stable condition, with expectations of recovery. The Ohio State athletic department quickly responded to the situation, identifying Demian as not being a suspect or having any involvement in the violent altercation. The department publicly expressed gratitude for the medical care provided to him and the support of his family during this difficult time. Ohio State’s soccer program emphasized the closeness of the team, and the family of Demian requested prayers as they navigate through this trauma. Prior to this incident, Nathan Demian had been a key player for the Buckeyes, contributing in 14 games during the season that has seen the team rise to the number one ranking nationally. They had recently clinched a spot in the NCAA Tournament semifinals, following a strong performance in the Big Ten championship and subsequent tournament victories. His absence from the upcoming match against Marshall on Friday would be deeply felt, and the team's coach, Brian Maisonneuve, spoke highly of Demian’s character, indicating that he was a significant presence both on and off the field. The circumstances surrounding the shooting highlight not only the unpredictable nature of such violent encounters but also the impact they have on individuals and communities. As investigations by local authorities continue, many are left reflecting on the prevalence of gun violence, even in settings often considered safe, such as a university campus. The urgency to address these issues in society grows increasingly evident as the affected communities rally around individuals like Demian, recognizing both their resilience and the need for systemic change concerning public safety.