Accident – death – Obituary News :

Olympia Student Housing Tragedy: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Claims Life of Washington State College Student

Olympia, Washington (KING) – A tragic incident unfolded at Evergreen State College, as a 21-year-old student, Jonathan Rodriguez, lost his life due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. The incident has left the college community devastated, raising concerns about the safety measures in place within the student housing units.

Discovery and Rescue Efforts

The unfortunate events occurred on Monday evening when a residential manager at Evergreen State College alerted campus police after receiving no response from three students residing in unit 305. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, an officer promptly arrived and, upon failing to gain entry, was forced to kick down the door. Inside, the officer quickly initiated CPR.

The officer, along with two of the students found in the unit, were immediately rushed to the hospital for medical attention. Tragically, despite efforts to save him, Jonathan Rodriguez succumbed to the carbon monoxide poisoning.

A Suspected Case of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Authorities strongly believe that carbon monoxide poisoning caused this devastating incident. The investigation is currently underway, and Evergreen State College is fully cooperating with the Washington State Patrol to unravel the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

A Community Shaken

Witnessing the aftermath of the incident, Jacob Benjamin, a student living adjacent to unit 305, recounted the harrowing scene as paramedics transported an unconscious individual, likely Jonathan Rodriguez, from the premises. Benjamin, while not personally acquainted with the affected students, was deeply disturbed by the distressing sight.

Executive Vice President Dr. Dexter Gordon expressed the college’s profound sadness and stated that comprehensive support systems are being extended to the college staff and students impacted by this tragedy. Ensuring the safety and well-being of students remains a top priority for the institution.

Thorough Investigation and Safety Measures

To prevent such incidents from occurring in the future, Evergreen State College is diligently working alongside the Washington State Patrol to investigate the root cause and implement necessary preventive measures.

Investigators are focusing on a carbon monoxide alarm that had previously activated, prompting a contractor’s visit to unit 305. The college community has expressed concerns about the functionality of the dormitory’s carbon monoxide alarm system, emphasizing the importance of ensuring its proper operation to safeguard the students.

Addressing these concerns, a college spokesperson reassured students and parents that all living units on campus are equipped with both smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, underscoring the institution’s commitment to maintaining a secure and healthy environment.

As the investigation unfolds, Evergreen State College remains dedicated to learning from this tragic event and implementing measures to prevent any future recurrence, ensuring the safety and well-being of its student community.

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