Today I learned of the tragic death of a freshman CU-Boulder student that occurred at an off-campus fraternity. Our hearts go out to the young man's family and friends and I share their grief and sadness.
The investigation into this tragedy is being conducted by the City of Boulder Police Department with assistance from the University of Colorado Police Department. It is premature for me to comment on the progress of the investigation. As we learn more from the police investigation, we will take decisive action as appropriate.
Our first priority is to provide support for the family and students affected by this sad event. Grief counseling services are being set up for any members of the University community who need help to deal with their feelings of grief and shock.
At this point, we do not know the circumstances surrounding this incident. In light of recent events in Colorado and around the nation, we are, of course, concerned about any possibility of the involvement of alcohol in this tragedy. This year, we undertook new initiatives to educate our students about the misuse of alcohol and the consequences for violations of alcohol policies. Again, we do not know whether alcohol played a role at this point.
At CU-Boulder, fraternities and sororities are chartered independently by their national organizations and exist in houses owned and operated by their national organization. They are governed by independent boards - the Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council - that establish rules and regulations for their organizations. We have about 2,500 students who are members of the Greek system, which includes 17 fraternities and 10 sororities.
It is my understanding that the national organization for the Chi Psi fraternity already has suspended the local chapter, pending the outcome of the police investigation.
This tragedy has deep impacts on all parts of the community. This loss of life -- especially for someone so young -- pains me deeply. I can only imagine the feelings of the parents of this young man; I wish to extend my deepest condolences to them.
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Related Information:
Statement By Chancellor Richard L. Byyny Regarding the Coroner's Report on the Death of Lynn Gordon Bailey Jr.
Chancellor's State of the Campus Address: Remarks on Alcohol Issues
CU-Boulder Administration Announces Early Responses To CU Student Death