The Franciscan University of Steubenville community is mourning the sudden and devastating loss of two students, Luke Reimer and Mary Mich, who were found dead inside a vehicle on campus in January. Authorities have ruled their deaths accidental, attributing them to carbon monoxide poisoning caused by a suspected vehicle exhaust malfunction.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the university, prompting an outpouring of grief from classmates, faculty, administrators, and families across multiple states. As details emerged through police statements and university communications, the incident underscored both the unpredictability of such accidents and the profound impact of losing young lives in the midst of promise and achievement.
The deaths occurred months after the pair had celebrated their one-year anniversary as a couple, a milestone Luke Reimer had marked publicly on social media with affectionate words and photographs. That context has added an additional layer of sorrow for those reflecting on the suddenness of the loss. University officials, while emphasizing that there were no signs of foul play, have focused on supporting students and staff through counseling services and community gatherings as they navigate the aftermath of the tragedy.
Discovery of the Students and Police Findings
According to the Steubenville Police Department, officers were dispatched around 12:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 19, to the rear parking lot of St. Agnes Hall on Franciscan University’s campus. The call was made to conduct a welfare check on two individuals who were inside a parked vehicle. Upon arrival, officers located a male and a female in the car and confirmed that both were deceased at the scene.
Police officials stated that there were no indications of foul play and no evidence of drug use. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office later determined, based on toxicology results, that both individuals died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. Authorities further explained that the deaths appeared to be accidental and were likely caused by a malfunction related to the vehicle’s exhaust or engine system.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can build up rapidly in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces, such as a parked car, especially if there is a mechanical failure. Exposure can quickly lead to loss of consciousness and death without obvious warning signs. In this case, investigators emphasized that the incident was not the result of criminal activity but rather a tragic mechanical failure.
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The police department’s statement aimed to clarify the circumstances in order to prevent speculation and misinformation. By confirming the cause of death and ruling out foul play, authorities sought to provide clarity to a grieving campus and community. However, the explanation did little to ease the emotional weight carried by those who knew the students personally or who were affected by the news.
University Response and Community Grief
Franciscan University administrators identified the victims as Luke Reimer, 20, of Indian Shores, Florida, and Mary Mich, 20, of Downingtown, Pennsylvania. In a statement addressed to the university community, President Father Dave Pivonka described the deaths as a “tragic accident” and acknowledged the deep sorrow felt across campus.
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Father Pivonka stated that early indicators pointed to a potential vehicle exhaust or engine malfunction as the cause of the carbon monoxide buildup. He expressed condolences to the families, friends, classmates, professors, and all who were impacted by the loss. In his message, he emphasized unity, faith, and mutual support during a time of mourning.
Out of respect for the deceased students, the university canceled campus events scheduled for the evening of the discovery. Counseling services were made available to students and staff, recognizing the emotional toll such an event can take on a close-knit academic community. Faculty members and administrators encouraged students to seek support and to look out for one another in the days following the announcement.
The university also shared a memorial post on its official social media platforms, honoring Reimer and Mich with a photograph of the pair and a message calling for prayers. The post described them as beloved members of the Franciscan University family and asked the community to keep their loved ones in their thoughts. Messages of condolence quickly followed, with students, alumni, and supporters expressing shock, sadness, and sympathy.
For many students, the loss was particularly jarring given the everyday familiarity of the setting. A campus parking lot, ordinarily associated with routine student life, became the site of an unexpected tragedy. This sense of proximity heightened the emotional impact, as students confronted the reality that such accidents can occur in even the most familiar and seemingly safe environments.
Remembering Luke Reimer and Mary Mich
Luke Reimer and Mary Mich were remembered not only as students but as individuals with lives, relationships, and futures that extended far beyond their academic roles. Reimer, originally from Indian Shores, Florida, had shared moments of his personal life openly, including his relationship with Mich. On Nov. 1, 2025, he posted a message on Instagram celebrating their one-year anniversary, accompanied by photos of the couple and a caption expressing his love and appreciation.
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Mary Mich, from Downingtown, Pennsylvania, was similarly remembered by peers for her presence on campus and her relationships within the university community. Friends and classmates described both students as kind, engaged, and deeply connected to those around them. Their deaths left a noticeable absence in classrooms, residence halls, and social spaces where they had been active participants.
The fact that the two students were a couple added a poignant dimension to the tragedy. Many who learned of their deaths reflected on the bond they shared and the moments they had documented together. The anniversary post, now viewed in hindsight, became a symbol of a relationship cut short and of plans and dreams left unrealized.
As the university community continues to grieve, attention has also turned to awareness about carbon monoxide risks. While officials have not indicated any broader danger on campus, the incident has prompted conversations about vehicle safety, mechanical inspections, and the importance of recognizing potential hazards. Such discussions are occurring alongside memorials and expressions of sympathy, reflecting an effort to process the loss while also considering preventative measures for the future.
In the weeks following the discovery, Franciscan University emphasized its commitment to supporting students emotionally and spiritually. Counseling resources remain available, and faculty members have been encouraged to accommodate students who may be struggling in the aftermath. The administration has reiterated that the loss of Reimer and Mich is felt deeply and collectively.
Luke Reimer and Mary Mich are being remembered through prayers, tributes, and shared memories, both on campus and beyond. Their families, now facing unimaginable grief, have received messages of support from across the country. For those who knew them, the tragedy serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact individuals can have on their communities, even in a short time.