Importance Score: 25 / 100 🔵
A South Florida community is in mourning following the unexpected death of a 15-year-old water polo player at a Miami tournament on Friday afternoon. The sudden passing of Lucas Osuna, a sophomore at Belen Jesuit Preparatory School, has prompted grief and shock within the local sports community.
Community Mourns Loss of Young Water Polo Player
Belen Jesuit Preparatory School has confirmed the death of Lucas Osuna, a sophomore and water polo player, with his family also issuing a statement. Details surrounding the tragic incident remain publicly unclear, leaving many seeking answers.
The cause of death has not been disclosed, and it is currently unknown whether Osuna was actively competing at the time of the incident.
Efforts to Save Osuna
According to a statement from his water polo team, the Miami Whitecaps, parents, referees, and staff from Ransom Everglades rendered aid in an attempt to resuscitate Lucas.
Belen representatives, when contacted for additional details, released a statement requesting ‘privacy for his family during this difficult time and prayers for his soul and comfort for his loved ones.’
Inquiries regarding the cause of death have been made to Miami school police and the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s office.
Lucas Osuna was a devoted water polo player and cherished student at Belen Jesuit Preparatory School
Lucas (right) pictured with family members after his untimely passing on Friday
Lucas pictured in the pool
Father’s Heartfelt Tribute
Lucas’ father, Mike, shared the devastating news on social media, writing: ‘It is with immense sorrow that we announce the unimaginable loss of our beloved son, Lucas Michael Osuna, also known as Thor.’
‘True to his superhero persona, he demonstrated perseverance, resolve, and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. In these tragic moments, our 8N Family has come together in unity, offering prayer, compassion, faith, and above all, love.’
‘We encourage everyone to hold their loved ones close and keep us in your thoughts.’
Widespread Grief
The impact of Lucas’s death extends far beyond his immediate family.
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, a personal friend of Mike Osuna, expressed his condolences online.
‘We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Lucas Osuna, a valued student from Belen Jesuit Preparatory School, class of 2027,’ Mayor Suarez stated. ‘Lucas was the eldest son of my close friend Mike. My heart aches for him and his family.’
‘To the entire Belen community, and especially to Lucas’s family and friends, please know that Miami is united with you during this period of profound loss.’
Remembering Lucas
Friends fondly remembered Lucas’s kind and genuine character.
‘He was genuinely kindhearted,’ said Justin Otero, a friend of Lucas, to NBC Miami. ‘He was always there if you needed anything.’
A prayer service for Belen students took place at the school on Saturday.