Ohio State All-American Wrestler Sammy Sasso Shot in Robbery Attempt
Sammy Sasso, an All-American wrestler at Ohio State, was shot in Columbus Friday night, according to statements from the Buckeyes' wrestling coach and athletic director.
Sasso, a redshirt senior, was shot in the stomach during an attempted robbery around 8:30 p.m. ET. After reportedly identifying himself as an Ohio State wrestler, he was transported to the Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, where he was reportedly in serious condition according to The Plain Dealer; his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
“Ohio State student-athlete Sammy Sasso was the victim of a senseless shooting incident Friday evening in Columbus,” Buckeyes wrestling coach Tom Ryan said in a statement. “Our coaching staff, along with members of the wrestling program and Athletics administrators, are grateful for the caregivers at WMC, thankful Sasso’s injuries are not life-threatening, and are supporting Sasso and his family.”
Per a report from The Express-Times, Sasso is expected to make a full recovery and wrestle again.
“We’re with you Sammy,” Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith said in a tweet.
Sammy Sasso was transported to @OSUWexMed where he is continuing to be cared for and monitored. Our coaching staff, along with members of the wrestling program and Athletics administrators, are grateful for the caregivers at WMC.
— Gene Smith (@OSU_AD) August 19, 2023
We’re with you Sammy.
Sasso, a native of Nazareth in Pennsylvania's wrestling-rich Lehigh Valley region, is a four-time All-American and a two-time NCAA runner-up in the 149-pound weight class.