A tragic event has cast a shadow over Ohio State University’s soccer team as Canadian soccer prospect Nathan Demian became the victim of an off-campus shooting incident just hours after his team’s major victory.

Demian, a junior defenseman for the Buckeyes, was caught in the crossfire during an early-morning car chase on Sunday, just after Ohio State’s historic win against Wake Forest in the College Cup.

A Historic Win Quickly Marred by Tragedy

On Saturday, Ohio State celebrated a thrilling victory over Wake Forest, securing a place in the prestigious national semifinals of college soccer, often compared to the Final Four in basketball.

The team was riding high, celebrating their success when the devastating news broke that Demian had been injured in a shooting.

According to Columbus, Ohio police, the shooting resulted from a car chase where one driver fired at another vehicle.

Sadly, the bullet struck Demian, who was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Ohio State’s Support for Demian and His Family

Ohio State quickly issued a statement addressing the incident, clarifying that Demian was an innocent bystander with no involvement in the altercation.

The statement emphasized that Demian was not a suspect, reiterating that he had simply been in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The university expressed gratitude for the support and medical care available to Demian and his family, highlighting the close-knit nature of the team and the ongoing investigation into the shooting.

“The soccer program is thankful for the incredible university support and medical care available to Nathan and his family during this difficult time,” the statement read.

“Nathan’s family is with him, and the team is extremely close. The family has asked that everyone keep Nathan in their prayers.”

Demian’s Soccer Career and Ohio State’s Strong Season

Demian, a Vancouver, British Columbia native, is a promising talent with the MLS club Vancouver Whitecaps academy.

This season, Demian has been an important part of Ohio State’s soccer squad, playing in 14 games and starting in 12, with an assist to his name.

Over his college career, he has played 44 games for the Buckeyes, starting 42, and contributing both a goal and an assist.

Ohio State has had an exceptional season, winning the Big Ten Conference regular season and tournament titles, and entering the NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Tournament as the number one team in the country.

After victories over Western Michigan, Stanford, and Wake Forest, the Buckeyes now have the opportunity to capture their first-ever national championship in soccer.

What Lies Ahead for Ohio State and Nathan Demian

As Ohio State’s men’s soccer team prepares for their national semifinal match against Marshall University on Friday, Demian’s situation weighs heavily on the team.

The Buckeyes are set to face the 2020 national champions, with the winner advancing to the national final.

Ohio State, who previously finished as runners-up in 2007, is determined to go all the way this time.

In the meantime, their focus remains on supporting Demian and his family as they navigate this difficult moment.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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