The Unanswered Questions: Latest Updates On The Cincinnati Open Intern's Tragic Death

The tragic death of 21-year-old intern Joshua Darst at the Cincinnati Open (Western & Southern Open) remains a somber and complex case, with the latest reports from December 2025 confirming that the investigation into the fatal accident is ongoing. The incident, which occurred during the final day of the prestigious tennis tournament, shocked the sports world and the local community, raising serious questions about safety protocols at major events. The most crucial update centers on the Mason Police Department's probe, which, at one point, was investigating the case as a possible aggravated vehicular homicide, though no charges have yet been filed.

This article provides an in-depth look at the life of Joshua Darst, the circumstances of the "tragic accident," and the current status of the police investigation that has kept the Mason, Ohio, community seeking justice and clarity for over a year.

The Life and Legacy of Joshua Darst

Joshua Darst was more than just a summer intern; he was a dedicated student-athlete with a bright future ahead. His untimely death cut short a life full of promise and passion. Here is a brief biography of the young man at the center of this tragedy:

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• Full Name: Joshua Darst
• Age: 21 years old
• Hometown: Ohio Native
• University: Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Michigan
• Academic Pursuit: Senior, studying Business Management
• Athletic Career: Left-Handed Pitcher for the Cornerstone Eagles baseball team, attending the university on a baseball scholarship.
• Employment: Intern at the Cincinnati Open (Western & Southern Open); Lifeguard at the Lakota YMCA.
• Circumstance of Death: Died after falling from a motorized cart at the Lindner Family Tennis Center.

Darst was widely remembered by his university, teammates, and local church as a kind, caring, and faith-driven individual who was eager to help others.

The Fatal Accident at the Lindner Family Tennis Center

The tragedy unfolded late on Monday, August 18, on the final day of the Cincinnati Open, also known as the Western & Southern Open.

Details of the Incident

The accident involved a motorized cart, often described as a golf cart or an industrial cart, being used by tournament personnel.

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• Emergency responders from Mason Police and EMS were called to the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason, Ohio.
• Joshua Darst fell from the moving cart, sustaining severe injuries.
• He was immediately transported to West Chester Hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries.
• The tournament organization released a statement calling the event a "tragic accident" that devastated the entire team.

The incident cast a dark shadow over the conclusion of the major ATP and WTA tennis event, which draws top global tennis stars and thousands of fans annually.

Official Cause of Death

Following the accident, the Butler County Coroner’s Office, under Dr. Lisa K. Mannix, conducted an investigation. The preliminary cause of death for the 21-year-old intern was determined to be head trauma.

The Shocking Investigation: Aggravated Vehicular Homicide

What elevated this tragic accident into a major news story was the subsequent police investigation. The Mason Police Department revealed that the case was being investigated under the potential charge of aggravated vehicular homicide.

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The Basis of the Investigation

Aggravated vehicular homicide is a serious charge in Ohio, typically involving a death caused by a driver operating a vehicle recklessly, under the influence, or while committing another traffic offense. The police report reportedly listed a "suspect" and the related offense as aggravated vehicular homicide, indicating that investigators believed the circumstances of the cart's operation warranted a criminal probe.

Latest Status: No Charges Filed

Despite the initial filing of the police report and the serious nature of the investigation, the most recent updates confirm that a significant period has passed without a definitive resolution. As of the current date, Mason police have confirmed to media partners that no charges have been filed in connection with Joshua Darst’s death.

• This ongoing status leaves the case in a state of legal limbo, providing no public accountability for the incident.
• The lack of charges does not necessarily mean the investigation is closed, but it indicates that prosecutors have not yet found sufficient evidence to meet the high legal standard required for a homicide conviction.
• The family and the public continue to await a final decision from the authorities regarding the manner of death and whether any form of negligence or criminal wrongdoing will be officially pursued.

Safety Concerns and Workplace Entity Responsibility

The death of a young intern at a high-profile event like the Cincinnati Open raises critical questions about workplace safety, especially concerning temporary employees and the use of utility vehicles like motorized golf carts. This incident shines a spotlight on the following entities and concerns:

• Western & Southern Open / Cincinnati Open: The primary host entity responsible for the safety of all personnel, including interns and volunteers, at the Lindner Family Tennis Center.
• Mason Police Department: The local law enforcement agency leading the criminal investigation.
• Butler County Coroner’s Office: The medical entity responsible for determining the official cause and manner of death (head trauma).
• Workplace Safety: The incident highlights the potential dangers associated with the use of utility carts on tournament grounds, particularly in crowded or high-traffic areas.
• Internship Programs: The tragedy prompts a review of safety training and supervision protocols for interns, who are often working long hours in unfamiliar roles.

The Darst family, friends, and the Cornerstone University community continue to mourn the loss of Joshua Darst, a young man who was simply trying to gain experience in the sports industry. The lingering questions surrounding the aggravated vehicular homicide investigation and the lack of charges filed maintain this case's status as a tragic and unresolved event in the history of the Cincinnati Open. The final outcome of the investigation will be the definitive answer the community has been waiting for.