Two students were found dead inside a parked vehicle at Franciscan University of Steubenville shortly after 12:30 p.m. on Monday, according to Steubenville Police Chief Kenneth Anderson and a statement from university president Rev. Dave Pivonka

The victims were identified as Luke Reimer, 20, of Indian Shores, Florida, and Mary Mich, 20, of Downingtown, Pennsylvania They were discovered inside a vehicle in the rear parking lot of St. Agnes Residence Hall on campus

Police Chief Anderson said officers were dispatched to 1505 University Boulevard to conduct a welfare check on two individuals inside a vehicle and upon arrival both were confirmed deceased He added that there were no signs of foul play and no indications of drug use

On Tuesday, the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office informed the Steubenville Police Department that toxicology results confirmed both students died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning The deaths were ruled accidental and are believed to have been caused by a malfunction in the vehicle’s exhaust system

In a statement, Rev. Dave Pivonka expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy saying the loss has brought profound grief to the entire Franciscan University community He added that the university is holding the students’ families friends and all who are mourning in prayer and asking for comfort mercy and peace

The university said that while the findings may provide some clarity they do not ease the deep pain felt over the loss of two cherished members of the Franciscan family

Following the incident the university canceled campus events on Monday and encouraged students to seek support from counselors and friars who were made available in residence halls and at the J C Williams Center

The campus community also gathered for a Holy Hour and Rosary on Monday evening to pray for the students and their families

University officials called on students and staff to remain united in faith hope and charity as they mourn the tragic loss and support one another during this difficult time