B.C. soccer player injured in shooting near Ohio university campus
22-Year-Old Soccer Player Injured by Stray Bullet Near Ohio State University Campus
A 22-year-old soccer player hailing from Langley, B.C., who currently plays for Ohio State University, was tragically injured by a stray bullet during a gunfire exchange near the campus on Sunday, as confirmed by the school.
The victim, identified as Nathan Demian, was reportedly caught in the crossfire in Columbus following the men’s soccer team’s match against Wake Forest on Saturday, according to a statement released by OSU’s athletics department.
The department clarified, “He was an innocent bystander, is not a suspect in any way, and was not involved in any altercation.”
The shooting incident took place in the 200 Block of Chittenden Avenue at 2:22 a.m., as stated by Columbus Police.
The police report revealed, “It appears that two vehicles were chasing each other and one fired at the other, inadvertently striking the victim.”
Nathan Demian was found with a gunshot wound and was promptly transported to the hospital in serious condition. Fortunately, authorities anticipate his recovery.
OSU’s statement expressed gratitude for the university’s unwavering support and the medical attention provided to Nathan and his family during this challenging period. The entire team stands united in solidarity with him.
According to Demian’s Ohio State Buckeyes biography, he attended Burnaby Central and University Hill secondary schools. The talented defender previously played for Surrey United FC, the Whitecaps FC youth team, and represented Team Canada in U15 and U17 international tournaments.
Coach Brian Maisonneuve commended Nathan’s exceptional soccer intelligence, stating, “Nathan has one of the highest soccer IQ’s I have seen in a player his age. His ability to read the game and be proactive on and off the ball makes him and everyone around him better.”