On Thursday at approximately 9 p.m., a suicide occurred in the Chemistry building, according to University Police and departmental officials.
Authorities have not yet released any details surrounding the incident and refused to identify the victim, who, though not a faculty member, held a position within the Chemistry Department.
"He was a local employee who had an adjunct appointment," Chemistry Dept. Chairman Timothy MacDonald said. "It was a person that the department knew."
At press time, the incident was still under investigation by the University Police.
"As soon as we have all the particulars, there will be a press release," said University Police Sgt. Cassandra Carter, who declined to comment further.
MacDonald said the identity of the victim is being withheld out of respect for the relatives.
"We don't want to keep a cap on it, but we also want to protect the family," said MacDonald, who was notified by authorities late Thursday night. "It was just an unfortunate circumstance."
The majority of faculty members contacted for interviews were unaware of the suicide.
"I'm shocked," said Chemistry Prof. Carl Trindle, who had not heard of the incident. "I just don't know enough to draw any conclusions or react in any informed way."
Assoc. Prof. Cassandra Fraser, who learned of the suicide "in passing," said there has been no official notification.
Pipe-fitter Jack Mumford, who was installing a sprinkler system in the Chemistry Building until 6 p.m. Thursday night and returned at 6:30 a.m. Friday morning, said he had no knowledge of the suicide.
All activities and classes scheduled in the Chemistry Building on Friday were held without disruption.
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