Lucas Osuna, 15, passed away unexpectedly during a water polo competition at Ransom Everglades in Coconut Grove on Friday. The Belen Jesuit Preparatory School community is in grieving for his passing.
Students, faculty, and staff are inconsolable following Osuna’s passing; many have described the campus climate as solemn and heartbreaking.
A family friend, Francis Suarez, the mayor of Miami, talked about the devastating loss.
“Obviously, they’re devastated by this tragedy, but at the same time, they are also overwhelmed by all the messages of support and donations that are coming in,” Suarez remarked. “They’re processing this entire tragedy.”
Investigating a potential medical ailment
Suarez stated that early evidence points to Osuna possibly having an aortic rupture due to an unidentified hereditary disorder, even if the cause of death has not been determined.
“They’re hopeful that this doesn’t discourage other parents from allowing their kids to participate in sports,” Suarez stated. “This was unknown to them.”
Although it hasn’t been verified, reports indicate the incident might have happened in between games rather than during play.
The community pays tribute to “Thor” Osuna. On Facebook, Mike Osuna expressed his sorrow and referred to his kid as a superhero.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the unfathomable loss of our beloved son, Lucas Michael Osuna, a.k.a. Thor,” wrote the actor.
“In true superhero fashion, he embodied perseverance, determination and overcoming all the obstacles life threw his way.”
Since sixth grade, Osuna has attended Belen. A statement lamenting his passing was issued by the institution.
“As a religious community, we stand together in our grief for our brother Lucas Osuna and in solidarity with his family and each other. We shall join in prayer for his eternal rest and offer consolation to those who loved him and to those who adored him.
The school announced that Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church would host the Mass of Resurrection on Wednesday, April 9 at 4 p.m.
Officials are still looking into the circumstances behind the young athlete’s unexpected death while the community grieves.
Belen Jesuit mourns sudden death of 15-year-old student at water polo tournament
