A St. Edward’s University student was found dead in a campus residence hall Thursday afternoon after university police carried out a welfare check, according to city and university officials. Emergency crews attempted life-saving measures, but the student was pronounced dead at the scene, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Police, university response
Austin police officers responded at about 4:42 p.m. Thursday to assist St. Edward’s University Police at a residence hall in the 3001 block of South Congress Avenue, according to KEYE/CBS Austin. University police had initiated a welfare check after a family member reported being unable to reach the student. First responders found the individual unresponsive inside a dorm room, attempted life-saving efforts, and the person was later pronounced dead at the scene.
Preliminary findings
According to KEYE/CBS Austin, police said there are no signs of trauma or indications of foul play. The Austin Police Department is not treating the death as a homicide. The Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause and manner of death, the outlet reports.
Campus resources and next steps
St. Edward’s University maintains a University Police Department and student support services, including counseling and campus ministry, that are available to students during crises. The university posts campus safety and support contacts on its website and typically coordinates with local law enforcement while the medical examiner reviews cases, per St. Edward's University.
How to report tips
Officials say the inquiry is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact Austin police. The city directs non-emergency reports to its online reporting portal and instructs that emergencies be reported to 9-1-1, according to the Austin Police Department.
