A University of Vermont student majoring in neuroscience was found dead in the snow last weekend as the region saw a sharp temperature decline.
Connor Gage, 19, was found deceased in the back of a parking lot in Burlington after experiencing exposure to the cold. The Burlington Police Department cited inappropriate clothing as a contributing factor to his death.
The police investigation so far has denied any foul play took place.
“Our investigation continues; his ID is being withheld pending notification of his family,” the police department said on Twitter.
A 19-year-old male @uvmvermont student was found deceased in the rear of a parking lot this morning. Indications suggest exposure to cold was a cause or contributing factor. Our investigation continues; his ID is being withheld pending notification of his family. pic.twitter.com/OVa8eU5M6M
— Burlington Police (@OneNorthAvenue) February 2, 2019
The university has announced counseling services for those affected as a result of the Gage’s death, and a campus gathering is also being planned.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Connor’s family,” Annie Stevens, vice provost for student affairs, wrote in a letter to community members. “Our sincere thoughts of care and sympathy are also extended to his friends, classmates, and to faculty and staff who were close to him.”
The latest death comes days after a University of Iowa student, Gerald Beltz, was found unresponsive behind an academic building.
The biting cold swept throughout the Midwest and northeast last week, forcing many universities to shut down and cancel classes.