UW Reports A Student Committed Suicide on Tuesday

A University of Wyoming student died by suicide on campus today, a spokesman said.

The male student was found dead by asphyxiation in White Hall early this afternoon, Chad Baldwin said.

"There's great sadness on the part of the administration and really the entire UW community," Baldwin said.

"Our hearts go out to the family," he said. "We're intent on redoubling our efforts to reach out to struggling students and give them the support that they need at a difficult time."

The student has not yet been identified.

This is the second suicide on campus in a week. A male student died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound while in a car parked outside White Hall on March 31, Baldwin said.

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Later Tuesday, the university released this statement from President Dick McGinty:

Dear Members of the UW Community:

I am deeply saddened to inform you of the tragic loss of another member of the UW family.

As you know, last week a student took his own life in a vehicle outside one of our residence halls. The investigation into that death has reached a point that we can identify him as Martin Oppenheimer, a freshman from Cleves, Ohio.

Today, another student died of an apparent suicide in one of the residence halls. The death is under investigation, and we are in contact with his family and friends to make sure they have the services that they need.

During this time of great loss, we are reminded of the importance of community. Losing a fellow student and member of our university can be very difficult.

I encourage those who feel they may need additional support to contact the UW Counseling Center, located in 341 Knight Hall. The Counseling Center is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and is prepared to support students. Students can also call an after-hours crisis counselor at (307) 766-8989 or Peak Wellness Center at (307) 745-8915.

UW employees may seek assistance through the Employee Assistance Program -- specifically, Mines & Associates at (800) 873-7138.

In addition, the Dean of Students Office, 766-3296, is available for any emotional or academic assistance you may need.

Sincerely,

Dick McGinty

President

University of Wyoming

Visit The Natrona County Suicide Prevention Task Force

Visit The Suicide Prevention Lifeline