18-year-old freshman Erik Severson was found dead in his dorm room at Excellence Hall on Wednesday. MUPD officers responded to a call to check on an unresponsive man around 4 p.m.
Police are investigating, but do not suspect foul play.
The Boone County Medical Examiner is determining a cause of death, according to the Columbia Missourian.
Bill Stackman, vice provost for student affairs, sent out an email to MU community members this afternoon.
“While we don’t know what caused this death, we are devastated by the loss and know this sad event will impact many here on campus,” Stackman wrote in the email. “We have extended our support to the family and those closest to this student at Mizzou.”
Stackman mentioned that grief counselors are available for students for the next few weeks. Students can contact the MU Counseling Center directly, and 24-hour crisis and consultation support is available at 573-882-6601.
Faculty and staff can contact the Employee Assistance Program for counseling at 573-882-6701.
“As the semester unfolds, I ask that you please watch out for each other,” Stackman wrote. “If you are concerned about someone, please don’t hesitate to encourage them to reach out for help.”
_Edited by Laura Evans | levans@themaneater.com_