‘Unspeakable Loss': University of Louisiana in Mourning After Tragic Incident on Campus

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is in mourning after experiencing a tragic loss over the weekend. On Sunday evening (Apr. 7), Social media platforms were flooded with rumors, troubling photos, and videos allegedly capturing a significant event near the Olivier Parking Tower along McKinley Street on the university’s campus.

UPDATE:

The University Police Department has released a detailed account of their initial response and findings in connection with an incident that took place over the weekend on the UL campus.

On the afternoon of April 7, 2024, UL Lafayette Police were alerted to an emergency situation near the Olivier Parking Garage on McKinley Street, where an individual was found unresponsive. Officers swiftly arrived at the scene, followed closely by emergency medical personnel who attempted to provide life-saving medical aid to the individual.

Following a thorough investigation, the UL Lafayette Police Department has determined that the incident was isolated, with no ongoing threat to the campus community. Authorities confirm they have found no evidence of foul play in connection with the individual’s death.

In the wake of this incident, the UL Lafayette Police Department has joined the broader campus community in mourning the loss of a valued member. The department has extended its deepest condolences to the friends and family of the individual involved.

The UL Lafayette Police Department also wishes to remind students, faculty, and staff of the support services available to them. The UL Lafayette Counseling and Testing Center offers free, individual counseling appointments to those in need. Members of the campus community are encouraged to reach out by calling 337-482-6480 or visiting the Counseling and Testing Center’s website for assistance during this difficult time.

ORIGINAL STORY:

Despite the flurry of unconfirmed reports circulating online, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette issued a formal communication on Monday morning, addressing the gravity of a situation that led to what they described as "unspeakable loss." The message, a poignant reflection on the loss and the community’s collective grief, came as the first official acknowledgment of anything troubling unfolding on campus.

The KPEL News team, upon learning of the unfolding situation through social media channels on Sunday night, promptly reached out to the UL Police for further details. However, with the police yet to release a statement, the university's message remains the sole confirmation of any type of tragic incident taking place.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Dean of Students, Dr. Margarita Perez, expressed the community's profound sorrow in an official statement. Dr. Perez highlighted the recent series of losses the university family has faced, including students, colleagues, and supporters, emphasizing the collective strength and compassion that has emerged in response to these tragedies.

Dear friends,

Last evening, the University experienced an unspeakable loss. In times such as these, mere words are inadequate to convey the deep sadness that we feel, as individuals and as a campus community. In searching for some meaning in what has happened, we should not lose sight of the obligation we have to each other to show support, empathy and understanding. Each of us will process this tragedy in our own way, but none of us are alone.

In the past several weeks, the University has endured a number of losses in its family. They were our classmates, colleagues, friends, students and supporters. Each touched countless lives and still had so much to contribute to making our campus and our world better. In each instance, I have been heartened, but not surprised, by the way our community has rallied to offer assistance and love. And I know that will continue in the days to come.

I want to say again – you are not alone. As you work through your grief and other emotions, and should you feel the need for assistance, the University offers counseling services and support. Counselors met with student residents last evening and will continue to do so in the days ahead. Free, individual appointments also are available through the Counseling and Testing Center. Call (337) 482-6480 or visit the Saucier Wellness Center to make an appointment. The center’s website also offers mental health and wellness resources and anonymous self-assessments.

Please utilize these services.

My thoughts – and those of President Savoie and the entire University administration – are with everyone who is mourning today. Please know that in difficult times such as these, your University family is here for you.

Sincerely,

Dr. Margarita Perez
Dean of Students

In her message, Dr. Perez urged those affected by the recent events to seek support through the university’s counseling services. The Counseling and Testing Center is offering free, individual appointments and has made resources and anonymous self-assessments available on its website for those struggling with grief and seeking solace.

The university administration, led by President Savoie and Dr. Perez, extended their deepest sympathies to everyone in mourning, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to providing support during these challenging times. The community is reminded that in the face of such unspeakable loss, they are not alone.

As the University of Louisiana at Lafayette community comes together to heal, we will provide any relevant details or updates to this story when and if they are confirmed by campus officials.