A profound sense of sorrow has enveloped Franciscan University of Steubenville following the accidental deaths of two beloved juniors, Luke Reimer and Mary Mich, both 20 years old. The couple was discovered unresponsive inside a vehicle in the parking lot of St. Agnes Residence Hall on the Ohio campus shortly after noon on January 19, 2026. Authorities quickly ruled out foul play, and the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office later confirmed the cause as carbon monoxide poisoning stemming from a tragic vehicle exhaust or engine malfunction.
Luke Reimer, originally from Indian Shores, Florida, was a business major and a dedicated defender on the university’s lacrosse team. Over two seasons, he appeared in 31 games, earning respect from teammates and coaches alike for his commitment and sportsmanship. Mary Mich, hailing from Downingtown, Pennsylvania, pursued studies in theology and catechetics. Known for her vibrant spirit, she was an accomplished dancer who devoted summers to serving at an orphanage in Ecuador, reflecting her deep faith and compassion for others.
The pair had been dating for over a year, having marked their first anniversary in November 2025. Reimer’s Instagram account captured tender moments from their relationship. One carousel post from that month featured photos of the couple around campus, accompanied by the caption: “One year with the most beautiful woman! I love you.” Another series, shared just over a month before the tragedy, showed Mich alongside friends and lacrosse teammates, simply captioned “I’m free.” A Christmas-themed post included family celebrations with Mich, ending with the warm words: “Amazing ending to the year.” These glimpses painted a picture of youthful joy, love, and gratitude—making the sudden loss all the more devastating.
Franciscan University, a private Catholic institution with nearly 4,000 students emphasizing faithful religious studies, responded swiftly to the heartbreaking news. President Rev. Dave Pivonka issued an immediate statement expressing the community’s collective grief: “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. 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.” Campus activities scheduled for that evening were canceled, replaced by a solemn Holy Hour and Rosary at 7:00 p.m. in Christ the King Chapel. Counseling services and spiritual support became readily available for students, faculty, and staff grappling with the tragedy.
The Steubenville Police Department launched an investigation upon discovery of the bodies in a gray Bronco parked near the all-female St. Agnes Residence Hall. Early indicators pointed to an accidental cause tied to vehicle exhaust issues, later corroborated by the coroner’s findings of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas, can accumulate rapidly in enclosed spaces like a running car in cold weather, leading to unconsciousness and death without warning—a silent danger that has claimed lives in similar incidents nationwide.
Reimer’s obituary, published by Mosti Funeral Home, noted his passing at St. Agnes Hall on January 19, 2026, underscoring the campus location where the couple spent their final hours. The university’s official social media channels shared memorial posts invoking eternal rest: “Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them.” Friends, teammates, and classmates flooded comment sections with memories of Reimer’s athletic dedication and Mich’s joyful presence in dance and mission work.
The tragedy struck particularly hard in a close-knit, faith-centered environment like Franciscan University, where students often form deep bonds through shared spiritual and academic pursuits. Reimer’s lacrosse teammates remembered him as a reliable player who brought energy to the field, while Mich’s involvement in international service highlighted her commitment to living out Catholic social teaching. Their relationship, visible through affectionate posts, symbolized hope and love amid college life’s challenges.
As the community mourned, university leaders emphasized unity in prayer and support for grieving families. Parents were directed to contact Vice President of Student Life Kim King for any questions or assistance. The incident prompted renewed discussions about vehicle safety awareness, especially during winter months when exhaust issues can prove fatal if cars idle in poorly ventilated areas.
Tributes continued online and in person, with students lighting candles, sharing stories, and praying for the souls of Luke and Mary. The university’s statement updated on January 22 confirmed the accidental nature of the deaths, providing closure while allowing space for healing. In a time of profound loss, Franciscan University stood as a beacon of faith, reminding all that even in unimaginable sorrow, grace and community endure.
The story of Luke Reimer and Mary Mich serves as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility. Two young people full of promise—celebrating love, pursuing education, serving others—were taken far too soon in a preventable accident. Their final posts, filled with affection and optimism, now stand as lasting testaments to lives lived with purpose and joy. As the campus heals, prayers continue for their families, friends, and everyone touched by their brief but beautiful presence.
