Tragedy struck the University of Dayton community when Ian Brunner, a recent graduate, died just hours after receiving his diploma.
“In a statement on the death of Ian Brunner, the University of Dayton asked the public to pray for his family, friends and loved ones.
A University of Dayton graduate died over the weekend just hours after graduation.
According to NBC network WPXI and CBS affiliate WHIO-TV, Ian Brunner, 22, was working under his car on campus Sunday night when it suddenly overturned and landed on top of him.
According to WHIO-TV, someone who contacted 911 said the jack supporting Brunner’s car “fell out,” leaving the recent college graduate “trapped underneath.”
He’s not responding,” a source told WPXI. “We need immediate help. how fast!”
A black two-door car was on top of the victim when emergency responders, who were called to the scene at 7 p.m., arrived at the student apartment complex on Irving Avenue, according to WPXI.
The Montgomery County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Brunner, who was pronounced dead at the scene, according to media sources.
According to WKEF and WPXI, the university released a statement saying, “We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to Ian’s family, friends, faculty, staff and our entire community.”
When people contacted the Dayton Police Department, the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office and the University of Dayton for comment, none were immediately available.
Brunner, a Pennsylvania native, was attending his own graduation just hours before he died unexpectedly, according to WHIO-TV and WPXI.
He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, according to the Franklin Park resident’s obituary posted by Schellhaas and Sons Funeral Home.
Ian earned his high school diploma from North Allegheny High School in 2019 before enrolling at the University of Dayton. According to his obituary, he participated in various extracurricular activities, including skiing, cross country, track and robotics.
Brunner has also participated in the university’s Makerspace, Mars Rover Team and Motor Sports Club, in addition to the neighboring British Transportation Museum and YouTube channel “Things I Build”.
A statement from the University of Dayton was released Monday, according to WHIO-TV. “We ask that the community keep the family, friends and loved ones of this young man in their prayers,” the statement said.
According to the Tri-City Herald, Campus Ministry Director Crystal Sullivan said during the memorial service that the day “began with a joyous celebration” but “ended with the tragic accident of one graduate.”
According to the obituary, Brunner’s funeral will take place during a Mass on Saturday in Sewickley, Pennsylvania.
A memorial service will be held in Sewickley, Pennsylvania where friends and family will gather to remember and honor Ian Brunner. As the University of Dayton and the greater community come to terms with this heartbreaking loss, their thoughts and prayers are with Brunner’s loved ones during this difficult time.