Jacksonville, AL – On Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at approximately 5:35 pm, the JSU Police Department were requested to conduct a welfare check on a student living in the Pannell Hall apartments. The caller was the employer of the student and became concerned when they couldn’t get a hold of the person.
Upon arrival, JSU Officers located the apartment and found the door locked, a key was supplied and they were able to gain entry and located the student inside and unresponsive. Further investigation determined that the student had died and the Calhoun County Coroner, Pat Brown, was requested to the scene. Pat Brown advised, “I was unable to determine the cause of death on scene so I listed the cause of death as “Under Investigation”. The students body was transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Science for a full autopsy to find the cause of death.
President of Jacksonville State University, Dr. Don Killingsworth issued the following statement after he learned of the situation:
“Jacksonville State University is mourning the loss of a student who died at their university residence. Following standard protocol, the University Police Department is conducting an investigation, but I want to assure you there is no threat to the campus community.
This is a tragic loss for the JSU family, and Counseling Services is available. Students who need support overnight may call UPD at 256-782-5050 to be connected with an on-call counselor. On Thursday, please contact Counseling Services directly at 256-782-5475 for support.
Sincerely,Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr.”
JSU Police Chief, Michael Barton, stated, “This is not being investigated as a homicide and there is no danger to the community”.
Update on Memorial to be found here
