The Otterbein University community is experiencing a profound loss following the death of 19-year-old sophomore wrestler Josh Taylor, who was killed in a car crash in the Thornville-Hebron area, Licking County. In a statement obtained by WBNS, Otterbein wrestling coach Brent Rastetter expressed the sorrow felt within the university community and confirmed that the accident occurred while Taylor was on his way to work.
Driving to earn some hours during his school break, tragedy struck, leaving a void in the wrestling team and the university at large. Statements from the university highlighted the support offered to students and staff through their Counseling Center, Office of Faith and Spiritual Life, and Division of Student Affairs. According to ABC6, despite grappling with the decision between majoring in history or special education, Taylor aspired to become a coach one day.
Rastetter, deeply affected by the loss of Taylor, recounted to WKYC the qualities that Taylor possessed as an athlete and individual, emphasizing his "grit" on the mat and the strong bond shared between Josh and his family, who were consistent supporters at his matches. Brent Rastetter, touched by the closeness of the Taylor family to Josh, stressed the dedication Josh had to his sport and how his family never missed an opportunity to be present.
Teammates like senior wrestler Cale Callahan, interviewed by WKYC, remembered Taylor for his lightheartedness and caring nature, noting how he "wanted the best for everyone." The team awaits their return to campus to join together in this moment of grief and to find ways to honor their teammate's memory who, in Callahan's words, "left his mark here good."
The university has yet to release further details about the accident, and the Licking County Sheriff’s Office has been contacted for more information. Funeral arrangements for Taylor are currently being prepared, marking an indelible moment of loss and remembrance for the Otterbein community.
