Tragedy struck the college football community in Ohio as news broke of the untimely death of Tony Crane, a sophomore lineman at Wilmington College. The young athlete was found deceased following an off-campus incident that shocked friends, teammates, and the entire college community.
On Saturday night, officers from the Wilmington Police Department responded to a call at the DTS (Delta Theta Sigma) Fraternity House, where they discovered Crane suffering from a fatal gunshot wound. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. It’s a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life, especially among young athletes who embody strength and promise.
In light of this devastating event, Sigrid Solomon, vice president for student affairs and dean of students, expressed the sorrow felt across campus in a heartfelt statement. Solomon shared, “It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of one of our own, Tony Crane. He was a cherished member of our football team and fraternity. As we navigate this loss together, we want to ensure support is available. Counseling and Campus Ministry Services are being offered to all students, and we will continue to provide updates as further information comes from authorities.”
The Wilmington Police Department reassured the community that there is no ongoing threat to their safety, having recovered a firearm from the scene. As investigations continue, the focus is on honoring Crane’s memory and supporting his grieving family.
In the wake of this tragedy, an outpouring of love and support has emerged from friends and teammates. One friend poignantly reflected, “I’m grateful for the privilege of calling you brother!! Your presence may be absent at the shows, the house, and on campus, but the impact of your life and passions will continue to resonate within us.” The sentiment shared among those close to Crane highlights the profound effect he had on those around him, both through his dedication to football and his commitment to the fraternity and his studies in agriculture.
As the college and wider community come to terms with this loss, our thoughts remain with Tony Crane’s family and friends during this profoundly difficult time. May he rest in peace, and may his legacy live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
