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A loss to our campus community

University of Utah statement on student death.

Dear campus community,

It is with heavy hearts that we inform our campus about the death of a 19-year-old University of Utah international undergraduate student. The death occurred this morning off campus and the Salt Lake City Police Department is investigating. Police have indicated that the situation was likely a domestic violence situation. A 26-year-old man, also a U student, has been arrested in connection to the investigation. There is no ongoing threat to campus.

At this time, the name of the victim is being withheld until her family can be notified. Our campus mourns her loss and grieves with her family and friends.

We know this news is difficult to process and will affect members of our campus community—especially those who are survivors or close to survivors of domestic violence.

We urge anyone in need of support to reach out to those around them and university resources for help (list below). The university’s Counseling Center is open to students, and the Employee Assistance Program provides counseling to employees. The Utah Domestic Violence Coalition is also a resource—call 1-800-897-LINK (5465). Additional campus resources and information are available at SafeU.utah.edu.

The death of any young person embarking on adult life is devastating. And, unfortunately, domestic violence is more prevalent than many of us are aware, even among college students. On behalf of the university, we extend our heartfelt grief and sympathy to the family, friends and classmates of the victim during this incredibly difficult time.

Keith Squires
Chief Safety Officer

Lori McDonald
Vice President for Student Affairs

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