Two Ohio college students, including a men’s lacrosse player, were found dead inside a vehicle on campus Monday — just months after the couple celebrated their first anniversary.
Franciscan University of Steubenville juniors Luke Reimer, 20, and Mary Mich, 20, died of carbon monoxide poisoning just after noon Monday, according to the Intelligencer, citing the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office.
“This news brings profound sorrow to our entire Franciscan University community. We grieve the loss of two young lives, and our hearts ache for their families, friends, classmates, professors, and all who knew and loved them,” the school’s president, the Rev. Dave Pivonka, wrote Monday.
“Please know that we are holding Luke and Mary, and all who mourn them, close in prayer, asking the Lord for comfort, mercy, and peace.”
Reimer, from Indian Shores, Fla., and Mich of Downington, Pa., were found dead outside St. Agnes Residence Hall — a women’s dormitory — on the campus that sits on the Ohio River on the border of West Virginia and 20 miles west of Pennsylvania.
The accident is being blamed on a potential vehicle exhaust or engine malfunction, Pivonka said, citing initial reports from the Steubenville police.
Officials have ruled out foul play in the twin deaths.
“In moments such as this, it is especially important that we care for one another,” Pivonka said. “I strongly encourage anyone who is struggling, grieving, or in need of support to make use of these resources and to reach out to a trusted friend, faculty member, or staff member.”
The students had been dating for over a year and celebrated their first anniversary on November 1, according to a post on Reimer’s Instagram.
“One year with the most beautiful woman! I love you,” Reimer wrote alongside multiple photos of the happy couple around campus.
“We miss you both and are praying. Rest in peace,” one person commented.
“Rest in peace, beautiful angels,” another wrote.
Reimer, a defender who majored in management, had appeared in 31 games over his two years at Franciscan University.
He said he chose the Franciscan university “to grow in faith, life and making lifelong friendships,” according to his player profile.
Reimer played for Zimbabwe in the 2025 Heritage Cup, where the team took on the Ireland Green team.
The school canceled all events scheduled Monday night and held a prayer service for Reimer and Mich that night.
Counselors were provided for students and staff following the deaths.
“Let us remain united in faith, hope, and charity, carrying one another through this time of sorrow. May Christ, who wept at the death of his friend Lazarus and who conquered death through his Resurrection, be our strength and our peace,” Pivonka said.
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