18-Year-Old Freshman Dies Suddenly After Collapsing During Workout

On Monday, a freshman college student at Grand Canyon University (GCU) in Arizona died suddenly after collapsing while working out on campus.

Steven Spellman, 18, died suddenly after suffering from a “medical emergency” that took place on campus, according to a statement from his university.

“It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we share that a student, Steven Spellman, passed away last night from a medical emergency that occurred on campus,” GCU wrote on its social media account. “Please keep Steven’s family, friends and the GCU community in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

First responders attempted to revive Steven, and an automated external defibrillator (AED) was administered onsite.

He was then transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

The cause of death is still unknown.

Grand Canyon University released the statement via Western Journal:

It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we share that the student involved in a medical emergency last night on campus has passed away.

Steven Spellman, an 18-year-old freshman majoring in Business Management, was exercising in the Lopes Performance Center when he became unresponsive. CPT and an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) were administered onsite and the Phoenix Fire Department transported Steven to St. Joseph’s Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

Steven’s family has been notified. His father, Brad Spellman, is a Police Aide in the GCU Public Safety Office, and his brother, Nick, is also a student at GCU.

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Please keep Steven’s family and friends, the entire Public Safety team and the GCU community in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time as we grieve the loss of a member of the GCU family.

Be comforted during this time by knowing that God is always there for us. ‘Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.’ (1 Peter 5:8)

The Office of Student Care is in contact with Steven’s suitemates and friends as well as employees and students who were present at the LPC to offer support and counseling. Pastor Tim Griffin’s office and the entire Student Affairs staff are also available on the second floor of Building 26 or by calling 602-639-7007 to assist anyone who needs support.