Student found dead in DellPlain Hall
A student was found dead on the first floor of DellPlain Hall at approximately 4:30 p.m. Friday.
Courtenay Nash, a freshman economics major from McLean, Va., was identified as the student who died in a statement from Chancellor Nancy Cantor.
Cantor sent an email to students at about 7 p.m. Friday that said Nash died unexpectedly, but she did not provide further detail. Hendricks Chapel will be open from 7 to 9 p.m. for thought and reflection, Cantor said in the email.
At this time, it is not believed the death is at all criminal in nature, said Syracuse Police Department spokesman Sgt. Tom Connellan at a press conference earlier in the day.
‘We are still very early on in our investigation, but there is no concern for public safety here at the university,’ he said.
Connellan denied media the opportunity to ask any additional questions.
Department of Public Safety Chief Tony Callisto said at the press conference that the death is a tragedy for the university community.
‘Our hearts go out to the families,’ he said. ‘We will provide any further information that we can as soon as we get it.’
At least seven emergency vehicles were at the scene in front of the residence hall off University Avenue.
Students said police told them they were not permitted on the first floor but could access all other floors of the residence hall. Students inside the residence hall were questioned by DPS officers for more information.
Kevin Quinn, SU’s senior vice president for public affairs, could not be immediately reached for comment.
Cantor said the Counseling Center, Hendricks Chapel, and the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program are available to help students, faculty and staff through the grieving process.
‘Our hearts are with Courtenay’s family, friends near and far, and all members of the SU community whose lives she touched,’ Cantor said in the email.
Published on March 22, 2012 at 12:00 pm
