Daniel Hollis, a two-sport athlete at Emerson College, has passed away due to irreparable brain damage following an off-campus fight. On Saturday, September 28, Hollis was found unresponsive and bleeding from his head in Boston’s Allston area. He was placed in a medically induced coma and never regained consciousness.
“True to his caring and giving nature, Daniel chose to be an organ donor,” his family wrote. “We pray that his gifts will prevent other families from experiencing the heartbreak we are currently experiencing. Our deepest appreciation goes to all who have kept us in their thoughts and prayers. We ask you now to turn those prayers and good wishes to the many friends and family who have to learn how to live with a little less sunshine.”
Hollis, who majored in marketing and was set to graduate in 2022, played ice hockey and lacrosse.
According to his family on CaringBridge.org, Hollis and his friends were approached by another group of “college-aged males” when the altercation ensued.
“Words were exchanged, pushing/shoving started, and in the scuffle, we believe Dan was hit and subsequently hit his head on cement/bricks as he fell,” the family wrote. “He was brought to a local Boston hospital and was diagnosed with a blood clot on his brain requiring immediate surgery.”
Police are investigating the assault, though no arrests have been made at this time.
“It is with great sadness that I write to inform you that Daniel Hollis ‘22 from Mendon, Mass. died today, surrounded by his loving family. A sophomore majoring in Marketing Communications and a student-athlete, Dan will be deeply missed by the many Emersonians who came to know and love him,” Emerson President Lee Pelton wrote in an email to students.
“Early last Saturday morning, Dan and a group of his friends were involved in an altercation in Allston-Brighton. During the incident, Dan suffered a significant head injury and was transported to a Boston hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery. Although the initial surgery was successful, tragically, Dan suffered irreparable damage to his brain, and he succumbed to his injuries today.
“The Boston Police Department, with the assistance of the Suffolk District Attorney’s Office, is conducting an active investigation of the assault.”
Hollis is survived by his mother Jennifer, father Jason, and older sister Kate.
Our deepest condolences go out to Daniel’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult and tragic time.