Tragedy struck an Ohio college campus Monday, where two students—including a men’s lacrosse player—were found dead inside a vehicle, just months after the couple had celebrated their first anniversary.
Luke Reimer and Mary Mich, both 20-year-old juniors at Franciscan University of Steubenville, tragically died from carbon monoxide poisoning just after noon Monday, the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed, as reported by the Intelligencer.
“This news brings profound sorrow to our entire Franciscan University community. We grieve the loss of two young lives, and our hearts ache for their families, friends, classmates, professors, and all who knew and loved them,” the school’s president, the Rev. Dave Pivonka, wrote Monday.
“Please know that we are holding Luke and Mary, and all who mourn them, close in prayer, asking the Lord for comfort, mercy, and peace.”
Tragedy struck at Franciscan University of Steubenville on January 19, 2026, when Mary Mich and Luke Reimer lost their lives to carbon monoxide poisoning. Franciscan University of Steubenville
Reimer, from Indian Shores, Florida, and Mich, from Downingtown, Pennsylvania, were found dead outside St. Agnes Residence Hall—a women’s dorm—on the Ohio River campus, perched on the West Virginia border and just 20 miles west of Pennsylvania.
Pivonka said early Steubenville police reports point to a possible vehicle exhaust or engine malfunction as the cause of the deadly incident.
Officials have confirmed that foul play was not involved in the tragic deaths of the two students.
“In moments such as this, it is especially important that we care for one another,” Pivonka said. “I strongly encourage anyone who is struggling, grieving, or in need of support to make use of these resources and to reach out to a trusted friend, faculty member, or staff member.”
Mary Mich and Luke Reimer strike a cheerful pose next to a cutout of Pope Leo XIV. @luke_reimer98/Instagram
In November, the couple celebrated their first anniversary—just months before tragedy struck. @luke_reimer98/Instagram
Reimer’s Instagram shows the couple had been dating over a year and joyfully marked their first anniversary on November 1—just months before tragedy struck.
"One year with the most beautiful woman! I love you," Reimer captioned a series of photos capturing the couple’s joyful moments around campus.
"We miss you both and are praying. Rest in peace," commented one grieving friend.
“Rest in peace, beautiful angels,” another wrote.
Luke Reimer was a standout defender for Franciscan University of Steubenville’s men’s lacrosse team. @luke_reimer98/Instagram
Tragically, the couple was discovered dead outside St. Agnes Residence Hall, a women’s dormitory on the campus. @luke_reimer98/Instagram
Authorities have confirmed that foul play was not involved in the tragic double death. @luke_reimer98/Instagram
A management major and standout defender, Reimer appeared in 31 games during his two years at Franciscan University.
He told his player profile that he picked Franciscan University "to grow in faith, life, and to forge friendships that would last a lifetime."
Reimer took the field for Zimbabwe in the 2025 Heritage Cup, competing against Ireland Green in a hard-fought match.
In a solemn tribute, the school canceled all Monday night events and held a prayer service that evening for Reimer and Mich.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, counselors were on hand to provide support to students and staff.
“Let us remain united in faith, hope, and charity, carrying one another through this time of sorrow. May Christ, who wept at the death of his friend Lazarus and who conquered death through his Resurrection, be our strength and our peace,” Pivonka said.
