Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Olympia College Student Dies from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Student Housing Unit

OLYMPIA, Wash. (KING) – Tragedy struck Evergreen State College as a young student lost his life due to carbon monoxide poisoning, while two others were rushed to the hospital after being found unconscious in their student housing unit. The incident occurred on Monday evening, prompting concerns about the safety of the college’s residential facilities.

Discovery of Unresponsive Students

The distressing incident unfolded when a residential manager at Evergreen State College became alarmed after the occupants of unit 305 failed to respond to repeated attempts to make contact. Worried about their welfare, the manager promptly alerted campus police around 8:30 p.m. Sensing the urgency, an officer took the decision to forcefully enter the unit, only to discover the students in an unconscious state.

Desperate Attempts to Save Lives

Upon gaining access to the unit, the officer immediately initiated CPR in a valiant effort to revive the incapacitated students. The officer and two of the students were swiftly transported to the hospital for urgent medical attention. Tragically, one of the students, identified as 21-year-old Jonathan Rodriguez by the Thurston County coroner, succumbed to the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Suspected

Authorities strongly suspect that the incident was caused by carbon monoxide poisoning, raising concerns about the safety measures in place within the student housing units. Jacob Benjamin, a neighboring student, recounted witnessing the distressing scene as paramedics carried one of the unconscious students, presumably Rodriguez, from the unit. Benjamin described the harrowing sight, stating, “They picked him up, and he was naked and unresponsive. His eyes were wide open. It was a lot. I didn’t know them personally, but I didn’t have to.”

Support for the Affected

Executive Vice President Dr. Dexter Gordon expressed devastation and extended support to the college community affected by this tragic event. He emphasized the college’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its students. The institution is actively cooperating with the Washington State Patrol to investigate the incident thoroughly and implement necessary measures to prevent any recurrence.

Focus on Carbon Monoxide Alarms

The investigation is centered around a carbon monoxide alarm that had earlier alerted authorities, prompting a contractor to visit the unit where Rodriguez tragically lost his life. The incident has raised concerns among students like Fritz Irwin, who questioned the effectiveness of the monoxide alarms distributed throughout the dormitories. Freshman Irwin expressed his apprehension, stating, “That’s scary because I’m wondering, ‘Well, are the monoxide alarms working in the dorms? What if something like that happens?'”

Ensuring Campus Safety

In response to these concerns, a college spokesperson assured the public that every living unit on the campus is equipped with both smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Evergreen State College remains determined to prioritize the safety and well-being of its students, taking necessary precautions to prevent similar incidents.

The tragic loss of Jonathan Rodriguez has sent shockwaves through the college community, prompting a collective effort to ensure the safety of every student residing in the college’s housing units. As investigations continue, it is hoped that effective measures will be put in place to prevent any future tragedies caused by carbon monoxide poisoning.

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