The USC community mourned the deaths of nine students this semester on Nov. 12, a figure that is greater than the total for each of the two previous academic years.
University president, Carol Folt — in a letter sent to USC students, parents and faculty over the weekend — said eight students died since the fall semester began in the last week of August, two from unknown causes.
The number increased to nine on Nov. 11, when a USC student was found dead in at The Dunes apartment complex in University Park, according to CBS2. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the man, about 28, was found dead Monday afternoon in the 1200 block of West 29th Street, but no foul play was suspected.
One of the students who died this semester was freshman, Matthew Olson of Newport Beach, who was killed while walking on the 110 Freeway early on Aug. 26. Causes of death for all nine students vary and include suicide, according to the university.
Folt, in her letter, said, “These tragic losses have resulted from a number of different causes. In some cases the cause of death is still undetermined, and in others, loved ones do not want details disclosed.”
Students in need of immediate help were encouraged to call USC’s 24-hour wellness line at (213) 740-WELL (9355). Anyone concerned about a friend or fellow student can communicate their concern through Trojans Care For Trojans.
