Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) faced a somber situation following an incident on Wednesday, prompting administrative communication with parents and students. Reports surfaced of authorities responding to an active situation around 2:20 p.m., leading to the closure of the biology building on campus. Unfortunately, it was later confirmed that a student at SLU was found deceased in the biology building, and local media outlets speculate the student’s passing may have been due to suicide.
While specific details surrounding the student’s death remain unclear, the university released a statement offering condolences for the loss and emphasizing support for the student’s family and friends. As of Wednesday evening, police continued their presence at the scene, supporting ongoing investigations.
Southeastern Louisiana University posted on Facebook,
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of our students. Our thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences are with his family and friends at this difficult time. We ask for respect for the privacy of the family and friends of this student.“As a valued member of the Southeastern family, we know the loss is being felt by many and we are doing everything we can to support friends, family and the wider student and staff community.“We will make every effort to help our students, staff and faculty cope with this tremendous loss. Please do not hesitate to reach out in this trying time.“We encourage anyone who has been affected by this news to contact our counseling service at 985.549.3894 or visit the Counseling Center in the Student Union.“On campus students who may need counseling help after business hours can call University Police at 2222. Police can connect you with counseling services. Off campus students who need counseling help can call 988 to contact the Crisis Intervention Center.”
In response to this tragic event, SLU shared a heartfelt message expressing deep sorrow for the student’s passing. The university emphasized providing support to the broader SLU community, urging respect for the privacy of the affected student’s family and friends. Support services, including counseling, were highlighted as available resources for students, staff, and faculty coping with the loss.
The university urged individuals affected by the news to reach out to their counseling service or contact University Police for immediate assistance after business hours. Off-campus students were also encouraged to contact the Crisis Intervention Center for counseling support.
Moreover, the incident prompted a call for heightened awareness about suicide prevention. The message emphasized the importance of recognizing signs of depression or suicidal thoughts and reaching out for help through various campus resources, advising individuals to “ROAR—Reach Out and Respond” in times of need.
This tragic loss has sparked a call for vigilance and support within the SLU community, encouraging everyone to be attentive and compassionate towards those who may be struggling.
