CORTLAND, Ohio-Franceso “Frankie” Placanica, an eighth-grade student at Lakeview, was seriously injured when a discus struck him in the head during track practice. He is currently recovering at Akron Children’s Hospital. Although he’s off the ventilator and speaking, his full recovery will take time. The community has rallied in support, with a prayer vigil held at Lakeview High School and various fundraising efforts initiated by schools like Lakeview High School softball team.
Other districts, including Warren JFK, Newton Falls Exempted Village, and Hubbard Local Schools, have shown solidarity on social media. Newton Falls even lit its water tower blue in support. Cortland police responded to the incident and Frankie was initially taken to St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital before being transferred to Akron Children’s Hospital.
