An Ohio high school lacrosse player is dead after a freak accident during a varsity match. Dylan Veselic, a 16-year-old sophomore at Bay High School, was critically injured during a game against Olmsted Falls High School on May 6, 2025. He was reportedly attempting to block an opponent’s shot when the ball hit him in the back of the head near the base of his neck, below his helmet. Sadly, he never recovered from the blow and died two days later.
Emergency responders rushed Dylan to an area hospital for treatment, according to People. He underwent surgery May 7 but remained in critical condition. His family confirmed his death a day later.
“With heavy hearts, the Veselic family shares the news that Dylan has passed away from injuries suffered during a lacrosse game,” the family shared in a statement, per WKYC. “We are deeply touched by the overwhelming support and kindness shown by our community and beyond. We ask that you continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
Dylan has passed away from his injuries sustained at Tuesday’s game. Please continue to keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers. pic.twitter.com/JbKaSBE4JV
— Bay Village Boys Lacrosse (@BayVillageLAX) May 8, 2025
Bay Village Athletics shared a similar statement on social media echoing the family’s grief.
“Dylan was an amazing student athlete, always wearing a smile on his face when supporting his fellow teammates,” the statement reads in part. “He was kind, hardworking, and dedicated, consistently showing leadership, empathy, and a positive attitude both on the field and in the classroom. Dylan’s enthusiasm, determination, and willingness to help others made him a role model for his peers.”
Olmsted Falls School District Superintendent Jim Lloyd expressed sympathy for Dylan’s family and teammates in a statement obtained by WKYC.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with (Dylan), his family, teammates and the Bay Community. They are a small, tight knit group like us so we know that things of this nature impact a community,” Lloyd wrote. “I am proud of our high school team with how quickly they handled the event and can’t thank our administrators, trainers, EMS and police department enough for their quick action.”
Jen Joyce created a Meal Train fundraiser for the family. Friends and relatives volunteered to bring food, and others made monetary donations. Thus far, it has raised more than $80,000.
