Ohio State University soccer player Nathan Demian shot near campus
Bailey GallionAn Ohio State University soccer player suffered a gunshot wound from a stray bullet early Sunday morning near the college's campus, officials said.
Nathan Demian of Vancouver, British Columbia, suffered the gunshot about 2 a.m. Sunday, in the 200 block of Chittenden Avenue, Columbus police and the university athletic department said Monday.
"He was an innocent bystander, is not a suspect in any way, and was not involved in any altercation," the university said in a statement posted on X (formerly known as Twitter). "The soccer program is thankful for the incredible university support and medical care available to Nathan and his family during this difficult time."
Columbus police responded to the neighborhood for a report of a shooting and found the victim, later identified by the university as Demian, suffering from a gunshot.
Columbus police said two vehicles were chasing each other, and occupants were firing at each other when a stray bullet struck Demian. Police have not said publicly whether they have suspects in the shooting or whether they've made any arrests.
Demian was transported to OSU Wexner Medical Center in serious condition, but is expected to survive.
The university stressed in a post on X Sunday that an Ohio State student had been shot off-campus and that school representatives were with the family providing support.
"Nathan’s family is with him, and the team is extremely close," the statement says. "The family has asked that everyone keep Nathan in their prayers. The department will do all it can to support Nathan, his family and the men’s soccer program in every way possible."
What does Demian's injury mean for Ohio State soccer?
The Buckeyes are the nation's top-ranked team and play in the NCAA Tournament semifinals on Friday against Marshall in Cary, North Carolina.
Ohio State coach Brian Maisonneuve spoke with reporters Monday during a previously scheduled Zoom conference call to preview the Final Four.
"We're going to miss him on the field. But he's such a huge personality," Maisonneuve said. "He really gets everybody going in practice and in games. He has got a great voice. He's a character in the best way possible. And, like I said, his play speaks for itself. He's a competitor, and it's going to be tough not to have him out there."
Demian has played in 14 games with 12 starts this season. He has one assist.
He was Academic All-Big Ten in 2022 and 2023.
"Like I said, it's a really tough situation," Maisonneuve said. "We'll really lean heavily on each other. It will obviously impact preparation. There will be a lot on everyone's mind. The guys will get through it. It's a great group, and we'll find a way."
This story has been updated to include new information.