Cause of Death Confirmed for Ohio State University Student Found Inside Stadium

Authorities have confirmed the cause of death for 19-year-old Ohio State University student William Meyers, who was found dead inside Ohio Stadium on September 26. According to the Franklin County Coroner’s Office, Meyers died by suicide after a fall at the stadium.

The announcement follows weeks of speculation after emergency crews responded to a fatality call that morning in Columbus. The university previously said foul play was not suspected and there was no ongoing threat to the community. The confirmation now provides closure for classmates, faculty, and the Fairfield, Connecticut native’s loved ones.

Autopsy Confirms Cause of Death for Ohio State Student

Officials said Meyers’ death was ruled a suicide resulting from a jump inside the stadium, confirming earlier reports from first responders. The Franklin County Coroner’s Office released its findings in early November, nearly six weeks after the tragedy.

Fire officials arrived at Ohio Stadium around 9:56 a.m. on September 26, after receiving an emergency call. The university quickly identified the student as William Meyers, a third-year accounting major known for his volunteer work and leadership in campus activities. The school expressed condolences to his family and reminded students that counseling services were available for anyone impacted.

Meyers’ death marks the second tragedy at Ohio Stadium in recent years. In 2024, 53-year-old Larissa Brady also died by suicide during Ohio State’s spring commencement ceremony, prompting renewed conversations about mental health awareness on college campuses.

Community Tributes and Mental Health Awareness

Friends and classmates remembered Meyers as a compassionate and driven young man. According to his LinkedIn profile, he co-founded a charity with his older brother that collected and donated used sports equipment to youth centers. His values of “respect, ethics, improvement, and integrity” were at the heart of his work and studies.

He graduated from Fairfield Ludlowe High School in 2023 before pursuing accounting at Ohio State. Outside academics, he enjoyed word games and performing magic tricks — small reflections of his creativity and kindness, friends said in tribute posts following his passing.

The case has renewed focus on mental health resources for students nationwide. Universities across the country are emphasizing expanded access to counseling, peer support groups, and 24/7 crisis lines to prevent further loss. Ohio State reiterated its commitment to supporting student well-being through its Counseling and Consultation Services division.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or mental health challenges, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for confidential support, available 24/7.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was the confirmed cause of death for William Meyers?

Authorities confirmed that Ohio State student William Meyers died by suicide after a fall at Ohio Stadium on September 26.

Q2: Where was the Ohio State student found?

Meyers was found inside Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio, where emergency responders arrived just before 10 a.m.

Q3: Who was William Meyers?

He was a 19-year-old accounting student from Fairfield, Connecticut, known for his charitable work and strong personal values.

Q4: How did the university respond?

Ohio State issued a statement offering condolences to Meyers’ family and friends and confirmed that counseling services are available to students.

Q5: What resources are available for mental health support?

Individuals can contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for immediate help, or reach out to campus counseling services for ongoing support.