18-Year-Old Freshman at University of Dayton Dies of Coronavirus Complications
Michael Lang
A college freshman in Ohio has died after contracting the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
Michael Lang, 18, died in La Grange, Illinois, "apparently due to complications from" COVID-19, the University of Dayton said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE.
"The loss of Michael calls our campus community to honor his memory and support those who are affected by his passing. Please respect the family's request for privacy at this time," said the statement, which was sent to students, faculty and staff last week.
"We extend our deepest sympathy and prayers to his family, friends, professors and our campus community," the statement continued. "Campus ministers, housing and residence life, and counseling staff are always available for you and for those you know who may be deeply affected by this loss."
It was not clear whether Lang had contracted COVID-19 on campus; the first-year student in the College of Arts and Sciences had moved home to Illinois on September 13 for remote learning, the university said.
The university added that Lang had spent a "lengthy" stay in the hospital before he died, but it was not clear how long. It was not clear if Lang had any underlying health conditions.
The University of Dayton has had 1,417 cases of COVID-19 since the school began tracking cases on August 10. As of October 25, there were 24 active cases among students, according to the school's tracker.
There have been more than 200,000 reported cases of COVID-19 in Ohio, with nearly 11,000 in Montgomery County, which includes Dayton.
According to his obituary, Lang is survived by his parents, Paul and Kathleen, and his brother Matthew.
"Mike was a student at the University of Dayton. During the summers, he loved caddying at LaGrange Country Club," his obituary says. "He enjoyed golf, fishing and all sports and was a good friend to all."
"Our kid is in a better place, and he’ll be looking down on us," Paul told TODAY, per NBC News. "But he’s 18. He was way too young."
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