‘Dedicated’ high school lacrosse player dies from injury at game, Ohio team says

A high school lacrosse player has died after suffering an injury during a game in Ohio, school officials and family said.

Dylan Veselic, who attended Bay High School, “was a dedicated student and athlete, and we are heartbroken by this loss,” said Scot Prebles, Bay Village City School District superintendent, WJW reported.

Dylan was injured during a game Tuesday, May 6, against Olmsted Falls, according to officials.

Witnesses who were at the game said the Bay High School player moved to block a shot by the opposing team, and the ball hit the player in the back of the head, just below the helmet, WKYC reported.

A 15-year-old lacrosse player in Minnesota had a very similar injury in April and suffered a traumatic brain injury despite wearing a helmet.

Dylan was taken to a hospital by ambulance, then flown to another hospital by helicopter where he underwent surgery, WOIO reported.

The following day, Wednesday, Dylan was still in critical condition and the community was praying for his recovery, WJW reported. But on Thursday, May 8, his family informed the district that he died.

“We are deeply touched by the overwhelming support and kindness shown by our community and beyond,” the Veselics said in a statement shared by the school. “We ask that you continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Bay Village is about 15 miles west from downtown Cleveland.

This story was originally published May 8, 2025 at 10:24 AM with the headline "‘Dedicated’ high school lacrosse player dies from injury at game, Ohio team says."