Students and faculty at the University of Maryland are in mourning after a student reportedly jumped off the top level of SECU Stadium.
SNBC13 News reported law enforcement agencies arrived outside of SECU stadium and closed down all nearby roads after a student committed suicide by jumping from the top level at SECU stadium on Tuesday afternoon.
The student’s identity has not been released and no further information has been reported.
In a message to the student body Vice President for Student Affairs Patty Perillo wrote:
I’m heartbroken to share with you the news of a student death on our campus.
Earlier this afternoon, an individual was found deceased on the north side of the football stadium. The University of Maryland Police Department issued two alerts to keep campus informed about the police activity, and is currently conducting a thorough investigation to learn more. There is no threat to campus.
Now that the victim’s next of kin has been notified, we wanted to inform the campus community. We will continue to respect the privacy of the victim’s family and loved ones. A community of care is being assembled to support them, and the dedicated Student Affairs team is reaching out to faculty, staff and friends who knew this student.The tragic loss of life of a member of our campus community is deeply painful. In light of this tragedy, we are committed to doing all we can to care for our community. To immediately address the concerns and needs of our students, we deployed staff to Yahentamitsi Dining Hall close to the location of the incident. The Counseling Center is prioritizing availability by canceling non-emergency appointments to make staff accessible for members of our community. And if you need spiritual support, our chaplains are available to provide assistance. If you need help, please seek support.
An anonymous user from the DC Urban Mom messaging board stated “My daughter is in Ellicott Hall which faces the back of the stadium. A student jumped from the top level. I am so shocked and sad for the student and their family. My daughter suffers from depression and anxiety and this would be my worst nightmare.”
Anonymous users on UMD’s Reddit page also shared that several students witnessed the tragic death.
Please keep the family and friends of this student in your prayers and make sure to check up on your friends and loved ones.
This is a developing story…