News and events

 

BLUFFTON UNIVERSITY BASEBALL TEAM IN ACCIDENT IN GEORGIA

The Bluffton University baseball team was involved in a bus accident early Friday morning, March 2, in Atlanta, Ga. The bus, carrying 35 student-athletes, coaches and bus drivers, was on its way to Sarasota, Fla., to play in a doubleheader with Eastern Mennonite University before heading to Ft. Myers to participate in the Gene Cusic Classic. Four student-athletes, the bus driver and the bus driver’s wife were killed in the accident.

Victims include Bluffton University students Tyler Williams (Lima, Ohio); David Betts (Bryan, Ohio); Scott Harmon (Lima, Ohio) and Cody Holp (Arcanum, Ohio); the bus driver, Jerome Niemeyer, and his wife, Jean Niemeyer, both of Columbus Grove, Ohio.

Bluffton University President James M. Harder spoke to the media, faculty, staff and community members this morning at 11 a.m. in Founders Hall. "This is a profoundly tragic and sad day for the Bluffton University campus community," said President Harder. "We are appreciative of the support we have been receiving from individuals and institutions both local and national. Our students and campus community are a close-knit family, and all are deeply impacted by the unfolding events."

Classes were cancelled for the day and student organizations planning to head out on spring-break trips cancelled their plans in order for students to be with each other and their families during this time of grieving. Trained counselors, local area pastors and community members have been available throughout the day for students to meet with.

"Bluffton University has a strong foundation of supporters," said President Harder. "Many individuals are offering their services, and we are truly indebted to them."

Bluffton University’s priority is providing support and assistance for members of the baseball team, their families and friends, as well as members of the Bluffton campus community. Prayers and support during this time of tragedy are appreciated.

A prayer vigil will be held at 8 p.m. Friday evening, March 2, in Founders Hall.