Two Students Discovered Deceased in Vehicle on University Grounds

Two students from an Ohio university were tragically found dead in their car on campus on Monday, January 19, shortly after they had celebrated their first anniversary together.

The deceased individuals were identified as 20-year-olds Luke Reimer and Mary Mich, both juniors at Franciscan University of Steubenville. According to reports from the Intelligencer, citing the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, they succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning shortly after noon on that fateful day.

In a statement released on Monday, the Rev. Dave Pivonka, the university president, expressed deep sorrow over the incident. "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," he said.

He continued, "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."

Reimer, who hailed from Indian Shores, Florida, and Mich from Downingtown, Pennsylvania, were discovered outside the St. Agnes Residence Hall, a dormitory designated for women, on the campus that is located along the Ohio River, 20 miles west of Pennsylvania, bordering West Virginia.

The incident is thought to have been caused by a potential malfunction in the vehicle's exhaust or engine, as reported by Pivonka, referencing initial findings from the Steubenville police. Authorities have confirmed that foul play is not suspected.

“In moments such as this, it is especially important that we care for one another,” Pivonka remarked. He urged those who are coping with grief or in need of support to utilize available resources and reach out to trusted friends, faculty, or staff.

Luke Reimer was a player on the men's lacrosse team. The couple had been in a relationship for over a year, celebrating their first anniversary on November 1, as noted in a recent post on Reimer's Instagram account.

In that heartfelt post, Reimer wrote, “One year with the most beautiful woman! I love you,” accompanied by several photos showcasing the couple’s happy moments together on campus.

Reimer's university profile indicated that he was a defender majoring in management and had participated in 31 games during his two years at the university. He expressed his desire to attend Franciscan University to cultivate his faith, form lasting friendships, and enrich his life experiences.

He also represented Zimbabwe in the 2025 Heritage Cup, where the team faced off against the Ireland Green squad.

Messages of sorrow have poured in from the community, with one expressing, “We miss you both and are praying. Rest in peace,” while another wrote, “Rest in peace, beautiful angels.”