Obituary ; Former Ohio State Head Coach Jim Tressel Passes Away in Building Collapse at 71

Former Ohio State Head Coach Jim Tressel Passes Away in Building Collapse at 71

Columbus, OH – March 20, 2025 – The sports world is in mourning today as former Ohio State head football coach Jim Tressel has tragically passed away in a devastating building collapse. The accident occurred late Wednesday evening in downtown Columbus, where Tressel was reportedly attending a private charity event. He was 71 years old.

A Shocking Tragedy in Columbus

According to early reports from local authorities, the collapse took place at approximately 8:45 p.m. at the historic Carter Grand Hotel, a well-known venue often used for upscale gatherings. The building, which had stood for over a century, was undergoing minor renovations at the time of the disaster. Witnesses described hearing a loud rumble followed by a cloud of dust and debris as a portion of the structure suddenly gave way.

Emergency responders, including Columbus Fire & Rescue, were on the scene within minutes. Crews worked through the night, desperately searching for survivors beneath the wreckage. Sadly, by 5:30 a.m., officials confirmed that Jim Tressel was among the fatalities. Several other attendees sustained injuries, and at least four more individuals are believed to have lost their lives.

The Legacy of a Coaching Giant

Jim Tressel was more than just a football coach—he was an icon. Best known for leading the Ohio State Buckeyes to a national championship victory in 2002, Tressel built a powerhouse program that consistently competed at the highest level. During his tenure from 2001 to 2010, the Buckeyes won seven Big Ten titles and played in three national championship games.

Before his Ohio State days, Tressel had an equally impressive career at Youngstown State, where he won four Division I-AA (now FCS) national championships. His influence on the game, his players, and the broader college football community was profound.

An Outpouring of Grief

News of Tressel’s sudden and tragic passing has sent shockwaves through the sports world. Former players, colleagues, and fans have taken to social media to share their condolences and memories.

• Urban Meyer, his successor at Ohio State, posted: “Heartbroken. Jim was a mentor, a leader, and a true Buckeye legend. Praying for his family.”
• Kirk Herbstreit, ESPN analyst and former Ohio State quarterback, wrote: “Still in disbelief. Jim Tressel embodied everything great about Ohio State football. A true loss for the sport.”
• Cardale Jones, former OSU quarterback, added: “Coach Tressel changed lives, including mine. His impact will never be forgotten.”

Current Ohio State head coach Ryan Day spoke with reporters Thursday morning, visibly emotional. “Jim Tressel set the standard for what Ohio State football represents. He loved this university, his players, and this community. We will honor him in every way possible.”

A Man of Faith and Integrity

Beyond his success on the field, Jim Tressel was known for his deep faith, humility, and commitment to education. Following his departure from coaching, he transitioned into academia, serving as president of Youngstown State University from 2014 until his retirement in 2023. He dedicated much of his post-football career to helping young people succeed in both academics and athletics.

Tressel often spoke about the importance of character, famously saying, “The hallmark of a great program is how its people carry themselves beyond the game.” He was also the author of “The Winners Manual,” a book that emphasized personal growth and leadership.

Investigation Into the Collapse Underway

City officials have launched an immediate investigation into the structural failure of the Carter Grand Hotel. Early reports suggest that recent renovations may have compromised the building’s integrity. However, engineers and safety experts have not yet determined the exact cause.

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther has pledged full transparency, stating, “We will get to the bottom of what caused this devastating collapse. The people of Columbus—and Jim Tressel’s family—deserve answers.”

A Final Farewell

A memorial service for Jim Tressel is expected to be held at Ohio Stadium, the very place where he cemented his legacy. Fans and former players are expected to gather in the tens of thousands to honor the man who led the Buckeyes to greatness.

Tressel is survived by his wife, Ellen, and their children. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time but has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support.

Jim Tressel’s legacy will live on in the hearts of Buckeye Nation and the entire football community. Though his life was cut short in a tragic accident, his impact on Ohio State, Youngstown State, and college football as a whole will endure forever.