Zach Arend Bluffton athletics photo

Bluffton student-athlete Zachary Arend died early this morning from injuries sustained in the March 2 bus accident in Atlanta.

"Another member of the Bluffton University family passed away this morning, adding to the tragic human toll of last week's bus accident," said Bluffton president James M. Harder. "We all grieve the loss of Zach Arend and ask for continuing prayers during this difficult time for his parents and family, as well as for all of Zach's teammates."

At this time, four individuals remain hospitalized in Atlanta, one in critical condition.

The Bluffton baseball team was on its way to Sarasota, Fla., to play in a doubleheader with Eastern Mennonite before heading to Fort Myers to participate in the Gene Cusic Classic. Four student-athletes, the bus driver and the bus driver's wife were killed in the accident.

The deceased include Bluffton students Zachary Arend (Oakwood, Ohio); Tyler Williams (Lima, Ohio); David Betts (Bryan, Ohio); Scott Harmon (Lima, Ohio) and Cody Holp (Arcanum, Ohio); the bus driver, Jerome Niemeyer, and his wife, Jean Niemeyer, both of Columbus Grove, Ohio.

A fund has been established at Citizens National Bank for the Bluffton baseball student-athletes that were involved in the accident. Contributions can be made by check payable to Bluffton University and mailed to Citizens National Bank, 102 S. Main Street, Bluffton, Ohio 45817. Please note "Baseball Team" in the check's memo line. Credit card contributions can be made by calling 419-358-3324 during the university's business hours. Funds will be available to the baseball players involved in the accident and their families.