Boy, 16, dies after freak sporting accident at school in front of peers despite wearing helmet

A 16 -year old boy has died following a freak accident during a sporting event at .

Dylan Veselic tragically died on Thursday, May 8 after he was hit in the back of his head by a lacrosse ball just two days earlier. The impact struck him beneath his helmet and caused him to collapse mid-game at Olmsted Falls High School in Ohio's Olmsted Township.

Veselic, a bright student and dedicated sophomore at Bay Village High School in Ohio, was rushed to University Cleveland Medical Center on Tuesday evening. But two days later succumbed to his injuries as reported by

An emotional statement from Dylan's family confirmed the heartbreaking loss: "With heavy hearts, the Veselic family shares the news that Dylan has passed away from injuries suffered during a lacrosse game," reports .

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The family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support whilst asking for continued thoughts and prayers: "We are deeply touched by the overwhelming support and kindness shown by our community and beyond. We ask that you continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."

Adding to the tributes, the Bay Athletic Department issued a statement praising Dylan's outstanding qualities as both a student and athlete: "Dylan was an amazing student athlete, always wearing a smile on his face while supporting his fellow teammates," the department reflected.

He is remembered fondly for his kindness, work ethic, and leadership: "He was kind, hardworking, and dedicated, consistently showing leadership, empathy, and a positive attitude both on the field and in the classroom."

Principal Jason Martin of Bay High also issued a statement thanking the neighboring communities for their support following Dylan's passing. "We are also deeply grateful to our neighboring communities for their outpouring of compassion and support. The response and comments throughout the day from his teachers, coaches, teammates, and classmates have been a powerful reminder of the positive impact he had on those around him and the enduring mark he has left on all of us."

Counseling was provided to students at Bay High School as well as Olmsted Falls High School, the opponent at the time Dylan got hurt, as reported by The Chronicle. According to the report, the Bay boys lacrosse team cancelled its planned match against Keystone on Thursday evening and invited members of the community to a prayer service at St. Raphael Catholic Church in Bay Village at 7pm on Thursday.

to provide food for the Veselic family has raised more than $104,000 so far.