The Franklin County Coroner’s Office has identified the woman who died after falling during Ohio State University’s commencement ceremony on Sunday as 53-year-old Larissa Brady of Georgia.
According to the coroner’s office, Brady was pronounced dead at the scene outside Ohio Stadium at 12:25 p.m. by Columbus firefighters. Her identity was confirmed using her fingerprints.
The circumstances surrounding Brady’s death have not been disclosed, and it is unclear whether her death was accidental or intentional. The coroner’s initial release did not provide further information.
Ohio State University’s 2024 commencement program revealed that Brady’s daughter was a graduate who received a bachelor’s degree on Sunday. The university and its police department have released minimal information about the tragedy that occurred during the graduation ceremony.
A university spokesperson, Ben Johnson, stated that counseling services were offered to all graduates and staff members who volunteered at the commencement following the tragedy.
Despite the news of the tragedy spreading among attendees, the ceremony continued without interruption. University representatives and commencement speakers, including social entrepreneur and OSU alumnus Chris Pan, did not address the death during the ceremony.
As students left the stadium after the graduation ceremony, the area where Brady fell was still marked off with yellow crime scene tape.
The incident has left the Ohio State University community in shock, and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Brady’s death is likely ongoing.
Brady’s family and friends are grieving the loss of a loved one, and the university has extended support services to those affected by the tragedy.
The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones, even during times of celebration and joy.
