Columbus, OH — Authorities have confirmed that William Meyers, a 19-year-old Ohio State University student, died by suicide after being found inside Ohio Stadium on September 26. The Franklin County Coroner’s Office released its autopsy report this week, clarifying that the student died from a fall at the stadium that morning.
Discovery and Investigation
Emergency crews from the Columbus Division of Fire responded to a call around 9:56 a.m. on Sept. 26 after reports of a body found at the university’s football stadium.
In a statement previously shared by the university, officials confirmed the fatality, identifying the student as William Meyers of Fairfield, Connecticut, and emphasized that no foul play was suspected.
“Foul play is not suspected and there is no ongoing threat to the community,” Ohio State University said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time. Counseling and Consultation Services are available for students in need of support.”
According to PEOPLE, Meyers died by suicide from a jump inside the stadium. The coroner’s report confirmed the cause and manner of death earlier this week.
Remembering William Meyers
Meyers was a third-year accounting student at Ohio State, remembered by friends and faculty as a compassionate and dedicated individual.
On his LinkedIn profile, Meyers described himself as motivated by values of respect, ethics, improvement, and integrity — principles he said guided both his academics and personal projects.
“Some of my core values are respect, ethics, improvement, and integrity, all of which I want to bring with me when I enter the workforce,” he wrote. “In my free time, I enjoy playing word games such as Scrabble as well as learning and performing magic tricks.”
He co-founded a charity organization with his older brother, focused on donating used and unused sports equipment to local youth centers. The initiative was designed to make athletic activities more accessible for children who might not otherwise have access to proper gear.
Meyers graduated from Fairfield Ludlowe High School in Connecticut in 2023 before enrolling at Ohio State.
Community Mourning and Campus Support
The tragedy has deeply affected the Ohio State University community, with fellow students and faculty members expressing grief and offering condolences to the Meyers family.
The university urged students to reach out for help and reminded the community that mental health resources are available through Counseling and Consultation Services.
“We encourage students to take care of themselves and each other,” the university said. “Support and crisis resources remain available for anyone struggling.”
Meyers’ death marks another heartbreaking loss for Ohio State, following the suicide of 53-year-old Larissa Brady at the stadium during the 2024 spring commencement ceremony.
Mental Health Resources
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or experiencing suicidal thoughts, help is available:
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for 24/7 confidential support in the U.S.
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Visit nami.org/help for resources and support.
What are your thoughts on how universities can strengthen mental health awareness and support for students? Share your views in the comments below.
