TRIGGER WARNING: This post contains information about suicide, which may be triggering to some.
Graduating from college is a huge milestone. After years of hard work and dedication, sleepless nights, and maybe even some tears, young adults mark the end of an era as they embark on the next chapter in their lives. Family and friends often get to join graduates in celebrating their academic achievement, making it even more special moment.
Heartbreakingly, the 2024 graduation ceremony at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, was marred by tragedy. A 53-year-old Georgia mom, Larissa Brady, fell to her death from Ohio Stadium before the ceremony began. Now, the incident is being investigated as a possible suicide.
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Larissa Brady died on May 5, 2024, after falling 136 feet from Ohio Stadium.
On Sunday, May 5, the last Ohio State University graduates were entering Ohio Stadium ahead of the ceremony when Brady fell 136 feet from the stadium to the pavement below, WSB-TV Atlanta reported.
She was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Franklin County Coroner’s Office. The incident happened at midday near the stadium's Bell Tower.
The OSU graduation ceremony continued without mention of the death.
Unfortunately, some students and spectators witnessed the fall. The commencement ceremony continued as planned, without any speakers or OSU representatives addressing the death. In the wake of the disturbing incident, the university contacted graduates and staff volunteers to offer counseling services.
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Reportedly, Brady's daughter was among the OSU students who graduated that day.
Brady's daughter earned a bachelor's degree at OSU on May 5, according to the commencement program, per The Columbus Dispatch.
"Ohio State is grieving the death of Larissa Brady, a family member of one of our graduates," OSU spokesperson Ben Johnson said in a statement to the publication. "Our hearts go out to her family and friends during this exceptionally difficult time."
Brady's death is being investigated as a possible suicide.
The Franklin County Coroner's Office is investigating Brady's death as an "apparent suicide," The Columbus Dispatch later reported. Reportedly, she entered the stadium with her husband and 12-year-old son to watch the ceremony, per USA Today.
She told her family she wanted to move higher after they were seated. Witnesses saw Brady climb over a concrete wall behind the last row of benches.
She had a history of mental health issues.
As The Columbus Dispatch reported, Brady suffered from mental health issues before the incident. She attempted suicide twice previously, most recently earlier in 2024, according to the coroner's office. Brady's husband told police she had not been taking her medications as prescribed.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
